In accordance with the statewide stay-at-home order issued by Governor Kelly, the United Way of Central Kansas offices will be closed through April 19th. But don’t worry…we are still here for you during this chaotic time. We are working hard from home and behind the scenes to provide for our community and our Community Partners who are truly on the front lines.
- Food banks are a vital resource for many residents during the best of times. Our partners at the Hoisington Food Bank will need our help even more as more and more of our friends and neighbors will find it necessary to seek their help. Their days and hours remain the same – 2nd Monday 2p-4p and 4th Monday 4p-6p.
- During this COVID-19 crisis some families will unfortunately find themselves in need of the services and shelter provided by Family Crisis Center. The Shelter remains open and their experienced and compassionate staff is available 24/7. The Child Advocacy Center continues to conduct Forensic interviews as needed. If you are experiencing any domestic violence or abuse please call the Crisis Line 620-792-1885.
- Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas staff members are working hard to respond to requests for basic supplies from their Non-Food Pantry. It is likely the items like formula, diapers, wipes and cleaning supplies will remain high in demand. While these products are difficult to find at the present time the need is still there and the staff will continue to find solutions for those who ask for their help.
- Salvation Army in Barton and Pawnee County is still available with funds for utility assistance and other emergency needs. An application of information is required and the while the Store in Great Bend is currently not open to the public, the staff are responding to calls for assistance.
- Some of our biggest heroes during the COVID-19 crisis are the volunteers delivering Meals on Wheels to many homebound seniors in our area. Demand is expected increase for Meals on Wheels so extra money for food purchased would be utilized, plus many Meals on Wheels drivers are in the High Risk Age group for Covid-19. So additional drivers, making ‘Safe’ deliveries would also be appreciated.
- The caring staff at ElderCare Home Services have taken steps to safely care for their clients so it is possible for them to remain in their home where they feel comfortable and the safest. Well checks, housekeeping, meal preparation and home health services are some of the duties provided by trusted and knowledgeable caregivers which brings a sense of relief to loved ones who are unable to check on their family members.
- If you are looking for a volunteer opportunity, RSVP/Volunteers in Action are taking applications for Meals on Wheels deliveries. Their office coordinates all the MOW routes and every step for no-contact pickup and delivery has been implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Children daycare centers have been deemed essential according to the current guidelines of services needed during this time. Great Bend Children’s Learning Center and Caring Hands Daycare in Larned continue to offer their services so parents have the peace of mind their children are safe in a learning and exploratory environment and staffed by neighbors and friends.
- The staff and volunteers with Central Kansas CASA are taking this time of social distancing and stay at the stay at home directive to continue supporting each other while they use creative technology aspects to connect with each other and the children and families they work with. This is one of the many agencies who will mostly likely be looking at future needs in terms of items for backpacks and other comfort supplies for those they serve.
- Youth being served by Barton County Youth Care and Barton County Young Men’s Organization and their dedicated volunteer staff especially need support in this time of unchartered waters as they navigate new challenges in distance learning. During this time of isolation and the challenges of not being able to spend one on one time with family members and workers may present a new set of trials for this group of young people.
Just because we aren’t in the office, doesn’t mean that we aren’t available to help where we can. 211 is always a phone call away to direct you to services in our area. You can also visit 211.org or text your Zip Code to 898-211. This service is available 24/7 thanks to a partnership between UWCK and United Way of the Plains. You can also reach out to our office, leave a message and we will get with you as soon as we can. You can also reach out to us via email at unitedwaycentralks@hotmail.com.
United Way of Central Kansas is here for you now and will continue to be a resource for those in our community.