Each week, Meredith Moss profiles a non-profit organization in our community and its specific needs. If your group has a wish list it would like to share, contact Meredith: MMoss@coxohio.com
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Meredith and her “Make a Difference” column have been honored with the first “Friend of Philanthropy” award from the Association of Fund-raising Professionals.
We’ve been writing for years about the Good Neighbor House, the faith-based non-profit organization that continues to provide basic necessities to the needy in our community.
“Good Neighbor House continues to give food to those in need on a monthly basis through our Pantry Services,” says Marcia Ehlers, director of human services and outreach for the group. “This service is provided on a walk-in basis.”
She says a Special Dietary Needs Pantry is also available for those who have chronic illness such as Diabetes and Hypertension. In addition to special foods, a dietitian is also available for consultation by appointment.
“We also provide dental, medical and optical care to the under-insured or uninsured in our community as well as a variety of wellness classes,” Ehlers adds.
At the moment the big news for the organization is the recent opening of The Thrift Store by Good Neighbor House. The store is open to the general public with an emphasis on serving as a community resource for under-served populations in the Miami Valley.
The thrift shop will sell new and gently-used donated household and clothing items at very low costs. “We think this will help our under-served neighbors be able to still help provide for their families and be able to afford name brand items both in our clothing and household areas,” she explains.
An added bonus is that those who can’t afford The Thrift Store items can attend free wellness classes and earn Good Neighbor House Bucks that can be used for purchases in the store.
Located at 627 E. First St., the shop is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays.
Here’s what they need:
- Coffeemakers, toasters, toaster ovens, blenders, electric grills
- Pots/Pans, bakeware, glasses, silverware
- Towels, washcloths, hand towels
- Pictures, picture frames
- Small or large knick-knacks
- Men's shirts, pants, shorts, suits, shoes
- Ladies shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, skirts, shoes
- Children's pants, shorts, dresses, skirts, shoes
OTHER WAYS TO HELP:
“Anyone who might have extra fresh garden produce to donate to help our families in need can drop off items during regular business hours,” Ehlers adds. “We also are looking for volunteers who like working with people and want to make a difference in our community.”
The volunteers they need, Ehlers adds, work in intake or the pantry. Shifts are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1-4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and a weekly commitment is preferred if possible. The organization’s clinic is in need of doctors and hygienists, with eye doctors especially needed.
For further information contact Marcia Ehlers Assistant Director of Human Services & Outreach at (937) 224-3003 Ext: 108. More at www.GoodNeighborHouse.org
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