It is that time of year again that many in our community are looking for ways to give back during the Holiday Season. This year’s “Holiday Help” list highlights everything that our local nonprofit agencies need to keep doing the great work in our community.
We know that COVID-19 is not going anywhere any time soon and agencies are continuing to provide much needed services in the best way possible. This year’s “Holiday Help” list informs the residents of Barry County of the many different ways that they can volunteer, support, and/or give a gift that will make a difference in their community. Gift requests often can range from items that an agency is looking to have donated to volunteer work to monetary donations and more.
For more information, contact Morgan Johnson at the Barry County United Way Volunteer Center at 269-945-4010. Items can be dropped off at the local agency that is requesting the item or can be brought to the Barry County United Way Volunteer Center at 231 S. Broadway in Hastings for distribution.
The “Holiday Help Needs” list follows:
Barry County Commission on Aging – Provides county-wide coordination for Barry County residents age 60 and over. Their mission is to promote independence, dignity and quality of life to the aging population and their families.
Cleaning supplies: toilet bowl cleaner, bleach, dish soup, laundry soup, shower/tub cleaner, floor cleaner, Clorox wipes, paper towel and Kleenex
Ensure/Boost drinks
Supplies for Adult Day Services: wet wipes, small head pillows
(3) standing desk converter kits
(4) office chairs
Small shop vac
Mobile tv cart/stand for 65 inch tv
Transit passes
For residents to come try the activities, events, and services at the COA
Participate in Trivia Night (February 18) and the Annual Walkathon
Volunteers to help with event
50 Barry County residents to “Like us” on Facebook
Contact Courtney Ziny, 269-948-4856
Barry County United Way – Improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of Barry County Communities.
Volunteers for VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program
For the Fresh Food Initiative: peanut butter, canned tuna/chicken, boxed mac and Cheese, boxed cereal
New, unwrapped gifts for the Toys for Barry County Kids program
Contact Morgan Johnson, 269-945-4010
Family Promise of Barry County – Their mission is to help families experiencing homelessness and low-income families achieve sustainable independence through a community based response.
Volunteers!
Gas cards
Paper products: toilet paper, paper towel, plates, utensils
Laundry Supplies: soap, softener, dryer sheets
Cleaning supplies for bathrooms and kitchen
Dish soap, hand soap
Contact Abbie Hockstad, 269-256-4594
Family Support Center of Barry County – To support and strengthen families to eliminate and prevent child abuse and neglect through awareness, advocacy, and education.
New or gently used desks or office work stations
Unopened, new packages of children’s diapers
Desk office chair
Contact Linda Maupin, 269-945-5439
Green Gables Haven – Offers shelter for abused woman and children for up to 4 weeks. GGH provides a temporary, secure, nurturing environment and support to enable victims of domestic violence in Barry County to make appropriate life altering changes.
Cleaning products, paper products, personal care items
Non-perishable food
Their most current needs can be found on their Amazon wishlist. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/XZ4D2YTFNADE?ref_=wl_share
Contact: Jenny Cusack, 269-945-4777
The Shack – A totally free clothing outreach available to anyone regardless of income or residency. Run completely on donations and volunteers.
New window blinds (2 sets)
An awning
VOLUNTEERS to work (1) Saturday a month
New underwear – all sizes
Gloves/mittens (waterproof)
Contact Kathy Forsyth, 269-207-2515
Thornapple Area Parks & Rec Commission – Provides all people with the opportunity to be active through affordable, safe and healthy recreational activities.
New or slightly used utility vehicle (Gator, Mule, or similar) to maintain youth baseball fields.
Contact Emily Dock, 616-450-1757
YMCA of Barry County – Provides community outreach, sports and recreation, child care and summer camp.
Gas cards for food delivery and “Y on the Fly” vans
New Vest Style Personal Floatation Devices for campers
Volunteer groups for Spring Projects
Contact Jon Sporer, 269-945-4574
