Back to school budget shopping

GREENCASTLE -- Living with a downturn in the economy makes preparing for back to school more difficult for many families in Putnam County.

Paying school fees and buying supplies leaves little money for clothes shopping for many Putnam County residents who are struggling just to keep food on their tables.

Thanks to the Putnam County Senior Center, school shopping is a little easier. They are offering half-off prices on already garage sale priced clothing items sold in their second floor store.

"People are really suffering financially," said Senior Center Director Kyle Hutchison. "Earlier this week we gave away more food from our pantry than in any time in our history."

The center takes donations of food, clothing and furniture and turns it around for those in need.

In addition to the food pantry the center has a second floor shop with clothing in all sizes and shapes.

Another lesser-known feature at the center is their basement furniture shop. They take donations, refurbish them and give them to those in need.

Older folks looking for a good, nutritional meal can find it Monday-Friday at the Senior Center. Hot meals are served at noon at a cost of only $2 for those 60 and over.

The homebound can order meals to be delivered to their doors for a donation.

"I don't think enough people know about all the good work that goes on at the Senior Center," Hutchison said. "These people are all volunteers and they do some wonderful things."

The Senior Center food pantry and clothing shop is open Mon.-Fri. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Anyone is welcome to visit the center, located at 9 W. Franklin Street in downtown Greencastle. They can be reached at 653-8606.

Donations of food, furniture and clothing are accepted at the Center.