January has not given us too harsh weather this year so we should be thankful for that. Winter may still show us some freezing temps but every day we avoid them we are looking toward spring. Our food bank clients are still struggling with shelter and electricity costs as they do each winter. Our clothing bank still needs more coats and sweaters along with children’s clothing and shoes. Every resource is valuable.
We all now see the teams that will face off in the Super Bowl which causes excitement and the opportunity to have parties and celebrate. Consider in your planning for this fun time that you could do some good for others by collecting soup and other items like spaghetti sauce and pasta when you invite others to your home. Make it a “souper bowl” party.
Both our clothing and food banks need more volunteers. The more clients we have the more resources we must put on our shelves or hang on our racks. Because we are a volunteer organization when volunteers are sick or fly south to warmer weather we must find others to take their place. We are still open all our normal hours but sometimes find ourselves short staffed. If you can make time in your schedule please give us a call or drop a note to our post office box that lets us know you are available. Drop in during open hours and see if it is something you would like to do. Our training is well organized by our site directors.
The many financial gifts of the holidays are being well used. They are sustaining us for now but are like all resources of funds used up before you know it. If you have an idea for a fund raiser or food or clothing drive please let us know. Sustainability depends on continued efforts to seek resources. This community has the power and hopefully the will to continue our quality efforts to help those in need.
Contact us at P.O. Box 261, Crawfordsville, IN 47933 or phone 765-362-3474.
Linda Cherry is president of FISH and contributes a monthly column to the Journal Review.
