NEW FOOD CO-OP NEEDS OUR HELP! WonGen Central Community Services, a co-op designed to assist the working poor through support, training and accountability, opened its doors to the greater community in mid-December. They provide services out of the Prairie Ridge Community Service Center (located at 14104 Prairie Ridge Drive, Bonney Lake) on a referral basis (this is not a drop-in food bank). More information is below about who qualifies for this program. As a new organization, they have several needs and could use some help to fulfill their mission. Please contact them if you can assist in any one of the following ways (both big and small). Their phone number is 206-200-4229. or e-mail Mary Beth Holmes at [email protected]. 1) ELECTRICAL & CONSTRUCTION HELP: They are currently serving folks out of the top level of the facility and need to complete the lower level. In order to do so and install a large refrigeration unit which is already on-site, they need a contract electrician who is licensed who can pull a permit and are willing to work with the non-profit on the cost to get the work done. Here is what needs to be accomplished: a. There is enough power/amp into the building to do what we need, but the circuit breaker panel needs additional breakers added. b. Some extra power needs to be pulled downstairs. c. Lighting and power outlets need be installed in the main room and in the bathroom (that will be built as we have the electrical work done). This will all be done through exposed conduit. d. The power to the refrigeration/freezer compressors needs to be pulled to the outside (they have all the specs for that). 2) They need to pour a concrete pad outside the east side of the building in the fenced area. 3) They will eventually need a large work team to put together the walk-in unit when we get to that point. 4) They will need some other work teams as construction is completed and painting is needed. 5) CARGO TRUCK OR VAN: They need a cargo truck or van to use for donation pickup. It needs to be big enough to hold at least 2 pallets of product. It would be best if it had a tommy lift, but they would take a running truck. They are thinking a 20 or 24 foot long truck would hold us for a while . At this point, they would take almost anything they could use that is in good running condition. If a business wants to donate one, they would gladly advertise their generosity not only on their website but on the truck, which is driven 2-3 times a month to Portland, and all over the Puget Sound as they get more and more donors. 6) VOLUNTEERS: They are seeking an individuals who would like to work with them as regular volunteers on their own time. a. One of their first needs is someone who can learn the program elevator speech and is a confident cold caller. This person(s) would go to local business/organizations who may be able to assist. An example would be going to local grocery stores and let them know about the program and the need for shopping carts/display cabinets/any donation items they may have. b. If there is someone who is gifted at managing fundraisers, like an auction, dinner, show, whatever, and has the contacts and stamina, and wants to do that for WGC to help raise some funds or serve on this team. c. One last person is a grant writer with experience and time to help them get some big stuff done. 7) DONATIONS: They are seeking donations, which can be dropped off at WonGen Central on Wed. from 1 to 5 pm or by appointment: a. Kids clothes & shoes, gently used or new. They will take all kinds of clothes. What they cant use, they will put to good use through other ministries. b. Household goods - if you have in good shape household goods (small appliances, bedding, kitchenware, tools, etc). c. Food - Canned, frozen, chilled. Pantry staples like sugar, corn starch, baking soda / powder, etc. Do you have a freezer full of fish or meat with more coming soon? How about planning your garden so you can help them out with fresh vegetables and fruits during harvest season? d. Diapers, Pull-ups, feminine hygiene items, paper towels, & toilet paper. e. Financial assistance: As a non-profit organization, and as a start-up organization, WonGen needs operating funds. Donations can be done online at wongeneration.org and make a donation online (make sure to select WonGen Central Community Services for your donation). You can also mail any contributions to: WonGen Central, PO Box 8102, Bonney Lake WA 98391. 8) REFERRALS: Do you know someone who qualifies for their program? Please refer them! Note that if they are receiving food benefits, they will need to be willing to let them go while on the program. Families do not qualify if they are receiving TANF, Childcare Assistance, and the like. However, being on the WIC program does not disqualifying them. Individual circumstances are considered for each referral and an interview process is required. Working poor can refer to individuals who have had a recent reduction in hours, lost their job, or are struggling to make ends meet. For questions or to receive a referral form, contact Mary Beth at 206-200-4229. or e-mail Mary Beth Holmes at [email protected]. 9) SPREAD THE WORD: Do you have a church or group who wants to hear more about the WonGen Central Program? They would love to come and speak to you. Please email Mary Beth at [email protected]. Mary Beth will be at the White River Families First Coalition meeting on Monday, Jan. 26th at 3:30 pm to speak about the program. This meeting is held at the Buckley Fire Station on Division St. just off Ryan Rd. I am delighted to have WonGen Central Community Services in our community and serving the greater area. Please consider assisting them where you can and getting the word out to others who can help or refer families. Monica Gaub Coordinator, Prairie Ridge Community Coalition Facilitator, White River Families First Coalition 253-334-5895
Posted on: Wed, 21 Jan 2015 22:57:48 +0000
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