Agency Spotlight: OCCF makes more than just monetary donations
Pictured: Margaret Horstman, giving the “thumbs-up” for generous clothes donations
Oldham County has a wonderful ally in the Red Cross, LaGrange office. On October 28th, OCCF’s Advisory Board Member Hope Boyd stopped by to donate some cold weather gear on behalf of OCCF and was pleased to meet Margaret Horstman, the Red Cross’s Community Service Manager. Margaret was gracious enough to share some highlights of the good work the Red Cross is doing in the community to address the needs during this pandemic.
The Red Cross meets with churches and organizations within the community to glean what is needed, working together in meeting those needs. For instance, when a woman from the community found herself in an abusive situation, the coordinated effort of the Red Cross and other agencies secured an apartment for her and her 3 children. This family received additional assistance in the form of furniture and food to help them get back on their feet.
Pictured: Hope Boyd, OCCF Advisory Board Member; Faith Brush
Every Christmas, the Red Cross runs a “Kidsmas” program, which provides gifts to children living in poverty. Last year, they served approximately 500 families, but they are hopeful to support even more this year, due to the ever-increasing number of families in need. Supporting the Kidsmas program involves “adopting” a child or family and either 1) purchasing the items on the list submitted for that child or family, or 2) donating a sum of money so that the Red Cross can do the same.
Last fiscal year, the Red Cross served 6,245 families. According to Ms. Horstman, the current greatest need is monetary donations to enable them to continue supporting those seeking assistance with rent, utility payments, and other basic needs. Margaret also revealed that private donations have dropped, due to COVID, so even something as simple as a clothes donation is appreciated during this unreasonably tough time.
By, Hope Boyd, OCCF Board Member