Community Survival Center needs household goods

Date: 1/26/2010

INDIAN ORCHARD The Survival Center's Clothing and Household Goods Program provides the basics to 3,400 individuals each month. The requests for the necessities of life are growing daily.

In the current economy with layoffs, downsizing and the lack of jobs they are struggling to assist people who once supported their programs and now need to avail themselves of these services. The need for all types of gently used clothing and all necessary household items, especially sheets, towels, small electrical appliances, dishes, pots and pans, is ongoing and unfortunately growing. In the past four months 190 families who were referred to the center by area social service agencies have sought assistance after a fire, surviving domestic violence or leaving a shelter. These families needed absolutely everything for an apartment and it's those items that are now in very short supply. The center has to limit so many basics because they just don't have enough. Imagine if you can a family sharing two bath towels, preparing a meal with only one sauce pan and one frying pan and sleeping in a bed without sheets or a pillow. These are all realities for many of the families the center assists.

The name "Survival Center" relates to the very necessary services provided in the area of food, clothing and household necessities. The center's primary function as a food pantry should not overshadow the tremendous need that exists in our community in these other areas of concern. At the present time the household goods program shelves of necessities is almost empty. When a family lives in an apartment that is without the basic necessities we take for granted like blankets, dishes, pots and pans, anger and hostility grow. By helping people with these immediate needs the center hopes to empower them as they move towards a more stable life for their families.

All donations are tax deductible. The center is open to receive donations on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For your convenience there is a large locked box in the parking lot at 240 Main St., where you can drop off bagged donations at your convenience.

For more information call 545-3930.