The promises of spring are beginning to show in our community. The early daffodils bring a smile to everyone. To keep that smile we need to support those in need so that all can be made whole amount us.
The three programs of FISH are gearing up for change of season as well. Our clothing bank is looking for lighter clothing, shorts and shoes to keep the ever growing children clothed. Pants for men are always in need especially smaller sizes. New packages of underwear and socks are appreciated as well as gently used ones. When you do the
change of season clothing at your house think of what others might joyfully use. Our drop off box at the rear of Wabash Avenue Presbyterian Church receives clean clothing and shoes. Placing them in plastic bags helps us keep them clean until they can be sorted, sized and hung for our clients.
Keep in mind our linen closet housed at First Baptist Church on State Road 32 when you decide to change a blanket or comforter. Our clients are often in new housing where a good set of curtains would make it feel like home. Look among your things and find that bath towel or sheet set you no longer need. All of us know what makes a house feel like a home. Share those dish towels that are no longer of use to you.
Our food bank is so grateful for the generous and creative ways people are finding to make donations. Many youth groups in our community are finding ways for the children to learn how to give and appreciate the needs of others. This is important nurturing of our next generation. Learning how to help benefits us all.
We are already seeing at the food bank the changes as the result of quickly consumed tax returns and the changes in food stamp benefits. Cuts in benefits have just taken effect and the impact on households will be long term.
Opportunities to volunteer at all of our sites are appreciated. As we look to April we see on the calendar our next mobile food pantry will be April 11 at St. Bernards.
Volunteers are needed for distribution at 10 a.m. and usually finish shortly afternoon. Food Finders of Lafayette brings a truck loaded with pallets that are placed in the parking lot. We usually have ten items in different food groups that are placed in client cars as they drive through. People wait in turn and are most grateful for what
they receive.To make this effort run smoothly we need at least two volunteers at each pallet. We average about 150 cars each distribution.
Many organizations like to have special events connected to the spring holidays. If your group is interested in a project, a food drive helps so many. Consider this as you plan and keep in mind that food is needed every week of the year so see if your group would like to be part of the solution to the needs of others.
Of course monetary donations allow us to fill in the gaps of what material donations do not provide. Any amount individuals and groups provide makes a difference. Recently we received many donations through the generosity of a family who mentioned FISH in their loved ones obituary. What a wonderful legacy to provide for the wellbeing of others.
As a community we need to see what opportunities present themselves and make them for the good of all.
Contact us at P.O. Box 261, Crawfordsville or by phone 765-362 3474.
Linda Cherry, FISH president, contributed this column to the Journal Review.
