The biggest request that we see from the community is for additional resources and forms of case management. As we grow, we will work on this aspect of need and offer a more personalized experience for the community that we serve. When someone stops at our community center, they are looking for many of the programs we have and some that we don’t. Each individual and family has different needs, but there are common pain points that affect many of those we serve. A few of those key commonalities we have noticed include:
- Access to food and not only food that is being given away, but how easy it is to prepare that food (opening canned food, heating and preparing that canned good).
- Charging a phone or finding a source of energy that can be used as a portable charging station.
- Doing laundry, taking showers, getting clothing items, getting items to prepare meals.
- The need for housing that allows pets.
- The need for recovery that’s easily accessible.
- Making sure paperwork is in order and kept dry and presentable.
- Access to identification and materials is needed to access certain programs in the community.
- Transportation to and from appointments in a timely manner and transportation accessibility for those facing additional challenges.
- Upkeep and maintenance for vehicles, pets and homes.
- Support for wellness, be it counseling, well-being services or self-care.
- Teaching opportunities and furthering education to navigate day-to-day life.
- Financial assistance and programming to get ahead of someone being late on a bill, utilities or rent.
The biggest way that we need help is always through new volunteers who help us to continue our give back to the community. Consider supporting us by holding a food drive, a pet food drive, or personal care drive.
If you have the means, visit our website and make a donation or check with the company you work with and ask about payroll deductions or workplace matching and group volunteering.
If you have property or space that could be donated to help us expand our programs, reach out to us. Sharing about a funding opportunity we can apply to can make all the difference, too.
We are always looking for:
- Applesauce
- Baby Items
- Baking Powder
- Baking Soda
- Cereal
- Cooking Oil
- Egg Noodles
- Flour
- Granola Bars
- Hamburger Helper
- Instant Potatoes
- Juice
- Ketchup
- Mayo
- Mustard
- Nuts
- Oatmeal
- Pancake Mix
- Pasta
- Pasta Sauce
- Sugar
- Syrup
- Cat Litter
- Pet Food
- Electric Heaters
- Bedding
- Blankets
- Stove Top Burners
- Cookware
- Household Cleaning
- Personal Care
- Laundry Soap
- Diapers
We also always are looking for support filling the little pantry in front of our location with food and pet food.
As we grow, we will continue to give back in new ways and hope to create a better today and tomorrow for the whole community.
Michael Knote is the volunteer executive director Have a Gay Day, Inc.