Helping Hands Clothing Ministry to mark five years with chili suppers

Thursday, September 29, 2016

The Son's Helping Hands Clothing Ministry, located on State Road 240 east of Greencastle has now been in operation for five years and is celebrating its anniversary during its fifth annual chili supper fundraiser.

This year the fundraiser is being held at Fillmore Christian Church, 102 N. Main Street, Fillmore, on Saturdays, Oct. 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 4-8 p.m. Free will donations will be accepted.

A silent auction is also scheduled this year. Several local businesses have donated items to be up for auction. Each night the winning bidder will be awarded the items they sought.

In the five years the clothing ministry has been open at this location it has seen a steady increase in the number of patrons. Many of those who come to the ministry looking for clothing, come back to help. Some say it's a nice way to get away from the house for a while.

"We so enjoy getting to know everyone and to hear about their lives and challenges," board member Karen Ames said. "We've also been honored from time to time with new friends who surprise us with gifts of baked goods or garden produce. It's a remarkably humbling and fulfilling experience.

"We've also been blessed with generous clothing donations," she added. "People have been very kind, especially during garage sale season. We're always amazed at the quality as well as quantity. Most of the clothing is in good condition, washed and folded and sometimes already on hangers."

The detached garage near the house is open 24 hours in order to make dropping off clothing more convenient. If receipts for donated clothing are needed, they can be provided during regular business hours each Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In the coming year Helping Hands hopes to make some organizational improvements to the building to make the clothes sorting process go faster.

"We have several ideas for new ways to raise funds and would like to schedule and advertise group sorting dates during the year so that anyone from the community who would like to help can become involved," Ames noted. "These events are usually great opportunities to meet new people, have a direct impact on the lives of our neighbors and to laugh."

Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration: