Contribution article
GILA COUNTY – In partnership with the Community Services Department of Gila County. Cobre Valley Homeless Coalition, and 2nd The Chance Clothing and Donation Center collects non-perishable food and hygiene products for those in need within our community.
There will be a drive-thru drop-off collection Saturday, February 18 from 9am-2pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints parking lot at 4247 Broadway in Claypool. (Enter on Broadway, exit on 2nd Street).
Additionally, collection boxes are located at the main entrance/reception area of the Gila County Courthouse at 1400 E. Ash St., Globe and at the Community Services Front Desk in the Central Heights Complex at 5515 S. Apache Ave. , Suite 200.
February’s Community Food and Hygiene Drive follows last month’s Point-in-Time Homeless Count with Continuing Care Coordinator Alison Torres and Gila County’s Community Services Department.
While final numbers are pending, Torres noted that the goals of the PIT count include building awareness of community needs and providing individuals with information about existing resources. doing.
“Naturally, food drives seemed like a good way to end the annual homeless numbers and continue to provide resources for those in need,” she says. As we try to serve our communities and connect people with food resources, we realize that all pantries seem to be understocked.”
After speaking with Tim Gonzales of the Homeless Coalition, Torres realized they both had the same idea about local food drives. “So we decided to join forces,” Torres said, adding. “Our community service team had already started the collection in our office after identifying the needs.”
Another partner in promoting food hygiene is 2.nd Chance Clothing and Donation Center, 4391 Hwy. 60, Claypool provides free food and clothing to those in need through vouchers from local organizations.
“2nd Chance acts as a clothing bank for people who can’t afford clothing for things like job interviews, weather changes, or people who have lost their belongings in a fire,” explains Torres. So are our community pantries. ”
“We distribute items to various community pantries around town,” she explains.
Plans are underway to host similar food and hygiene activities in Payson. Please wait for the latest information.
For more information, contact Allison at 928-425-7631 or atorres@gilacountyaz.gov, contact Tim at 928-961-3141, or email tgonzales.1964homelesscoalition@gmail.gov.
