Jan DeFerbrache is exhausted, but also encouraged as 2021 winds down. As the executive director of Gaia Works, a non-denominational nonprofit, she works year-round to provide 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. Last year’s pandemic meant the loss of several important fundraisers, even as the need for assistance grew. “We have more seniors this year,” she said, “and more people who are homeless, who we also help. And more kids at Coburn.”
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 22. 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.
In addition to the Weekly View office, Gaia Works will set up donation boxes at Hampton’s Design, 5515 E. Washington St., and Si Greene’s at 5109 E. 10th St.. Kemba’s Credit Union will also have a donation box at 444 S. Shortridge Rd.
The Magic Candle will have a Giving Tree in the shop, where visitors can select the name of a child in need and buy for them.
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.
