Editor,

Garage of Blessings is a nonprofit organization whose sole purpose is to assist others in a time of need. The Garage of Blessings collects new and used items from those fortunate enough to have the ability to give and share their donated items with those in need. The Garage of Blessings is a conduit from within the community to give back to the community as needed.

No questions are asked of why the need. People in troubled times have needs including food, clothing and other basic items. The Garage of Blessings facilitates the collection of donated items and provides to those in need, regardless of their situation.

Garage of Blessings has dozens of committed volunteers who make the program work and are truly the heart of the organization. The volunteers of this community and the surrounding areas come to give their time to assist others. These volunteers are from all walks of life and have one thing in common, a desire to help those in need. Some volunteers have had the need to use the Garage of Blessings at certain times in their own lives and understand what it is like to be in a position to rely on someone else for their needs to be met.

People in need of Garage of Blessings services include those who are between paychecks, low income, victims of domestic violence, newly started families, experience change in life circumstances, homeless, senior citizens, Navy personnel both current and retired, and others including their families.

Garage of Blessings services include, but are not limited to the following free items: household goods, school supplies, baby and kids items, birthday supplies, notary services, mentoring, classes and events , coats, homecoming dresses, emergency food and support services.

We understand and acknowledge the issues of homelessness in our community, as well as the services provided to all people who are in need.

We look forward to being an ongoing part of a multi-approach solution with other partners to help reduce any negative impacts experienced in our communities. We welcome a civil and open dialogue that results in positive outcomes for all. Representatives from businesses, civic groups, nonprofits, churches and government, as well as other interested parties, need to continue to work together to collaborate on best practices in order to tackle this local, county, state, and national level problem.

You can help support our communities by donating your time and volunteering with us. If you are unable to do so, we also gladly accept donations of money and tangible goods. Thank you for your ongoing support of serving our communities.

Thank you for your previous and future support.

The Garage of Blessings board of directors

Mark Geer, Bobbi Hawley, Dawnita Hunsberger, Julie Lauderdale, Diane MaKaeli, Brian McMahan and Bruce Moen