As I write this, we are enjoying a day of relief from the oppressive heat. Many people who have to work in these conditions are having a really tough time. This includes the many people who volunteer to help provide food and other essentials to FISH’s clients. These efforts are not magic, just hard work, and they deserve our thanks.
I have just been traveling for a while and learning what people in other parts of our country are doing to help each other. The theme of the conference I attended was “What can one person do?”
I was drawn to this topic because I am the only person interested in improving the lives of other people in my area. I have no authority to impact beyond this country, so it is important that I do what I can here. I think for most people who live here, that is a simple answer. The more people adopt that attitude, the better off our country will be.
FISH volunteers are rolling up their sleeves and getting to work. Lately we have seen a significant drop in donations from our gardens. I know my own garden isn’t the best this year, but I bet there are plenty of tomatoes and cucumbers that could find their way into the FISH pantry if people recognized the need. The zucchini rotting in the field would be a treasure to our customers. Please look at what you have that you don’t need for your family and bring it by any day except Monday when we are closed. We would greatly appreciate it.
Church financial donations are a major part of the funds we use. In July, seven churches donated, most of which are regular donors. There are nearly 90 churches in our county that could make FISH a part of their community outreach if they were thinking of those among us in need. Last month, FISH served 475 different households, some of whom are living in motels and tents this month. It seems obvious that there are other churches that could step up and host a giving day or food drive. Our current donors’ donations are included in their annual budget. These churches provide funds regularly.
FISH is participating in the local initiative First Door, a pilot program to consolidate services for the poor. Every Monday from 4-6 p.m. at the Youth Service Bureau on Pike Street, we try to reach out to those who need help obtaining shelter, food, clothing, medical care, and all other essentials. From my perspective, every week the program helps people who don’t know how to get the help they need. This central time and place serves to make those connections. Once this pilot program is complete, it seems to demonstrate to the community that centralized access to services is essential. How this will be accomplished is yet to be determined.
The FISH clothing bank is preparing to switch to fall needs. When I look at my grandchildren, I know that the clothes they wore last fall and winter are no longer in their closet this year. As you switch to more seasonal clothing, if you find that last year’s jacket is too small, donate it to our clothing bin. Make sure the clothes are clean and are dropped off in a plastic bag. You will see someone on the street who will appreciate your thoughtful gift.
The need for volunteers for FISH is always high. Check back to see when you are available or get on a call list when large donations or government supplies arrive. The more hands we can help us stock the incoming produce or assist our customers, the better our program can be. We always need extra help when our volunteers get sick or have to travel.
If you can help, please contact us through our PO Box 261 or call 765-362 3474. I am sure you will find a way to help.
Linda Cherry is president of FISH. She writes a monthly column for the Journal Review.
