This year has been a challenge for everyone — and particularly for non-profit organizations that provide essentials to underserved communities. Now with the second wave of COVID-19 washing over Indiana, groups like Gaia Works in Irvington are pressed from all sides: growing demand for services, and more obstacles to getting resources that they need.
Gaia Works, a non-denominational nonprofit, provides year-round support for seniors in need in our neighborhoods, supplying weekly bags of food to individuals. In addition, they support Coburn Place, a shelter for survivors of domestic abuse in Central Indiana through funds raised by the annual Masquerade Ball and other sources.
Gaia Works is working on providing Thanksgiving with all the fixings to seniors and families in need, and is currently collecting food for Thanksgiving boxes. Gift cards to purchase chickens, turkeys, eggs, milk, and other perishable foods would be very welcome. Non-perishables such as canned yams, marshmallows, stuffing mix, green beans, peas, and sweets will be included in the Thanksgiving bags. They really need instant coffee, and instant hot chocolate. The community is invited to donate items at the Magic Candle, 203 S. Audubon as soon as possible.
In addition to human food, Gaia Works is collecting pet items for seniors and local pet centers. Seniors with pets have a difficult time affording food for their cats or dogs. Dry or wet dog and cat food, pet treats, water and food bowl, grooming tools, cat litter, and pet beds are needed for the pantry.
This year, the Weekly View will begin collecting new stocking-stuffer toys, games, warm winter clothing for children and adults, candy canes, and the like at our office, 195 N. Shortridge Rd., Suite D beginning November 23. Mittens, gloves, scarves, and toiletries are always welcome. Toys for kids age 1-17 would be greatly appreciated. Toys and games for teenagers are also hard to come by — gift cards would be appreciated for these older kids so they can pick out their own gifts.
The mothers at Coburn Place are also given holiday bags, and Gaia Works is seeking toiletries, hats, gloves, scarves, slippers, combs, treats, pocket calendars, and other small “luxury” items the ladies would appreciate.
Kemba Credit Union will be sponsoring a Giving Tree in their lobby this year. The Giving Tree allows individuals to pick a name and purchase items for a specific child in need. Kemba is located at 444 S. Shortridge Rd.
