Dear Friend,
The Urban Community Outreach Drop-In-Center (UCO/DIC) has once again reopened after our annual July break. We all know the economy is bad, but the homeless and working poor, our guests, have been the hardest hit. The demand for our services continues to grow and we have applied for funding through some wonderful foundations. However, this is a time-consuming process while the foundations get to know us and observe our work. The only place we can turn during this difficult time is you, our loyal supporters. Without you, our ability to stay open and continue our work is in jeopardy.
The Drop-In-Center was started in 2006 by Janet Rhodes as a place to help our clients get off the street, have a nutritious meal, get a health screening from the visiting nurse, and use our 16 station computer lab to contact their loved ones far away. Since then we have expanded to the distribution of clothing, blankets, pantry food, pet supplies and hygiene kits. In 5 short years, DIC has grown from serving 75-150 people to 300-400 clients each week. With the increase in attendance comes the need to expand the services we offer our guests. UCO partners with many local organizations and businesses such as Foodfinders, Temple Israel, Vedenta Society, Be the Cause, The Westin and a cadre of volunteers from the President’s Scholars of CSULB. Our efforts to grow include expanding our board of dedicated community leaders, doing community outreach for our programs, and expanding our fundraising efforts.
In addition we have become a home base for many of our guests. We have helped to change the lives of many. Here is one example:
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Steve, a veteran, began volunteering in September of 2009. He was very angry and he had a crack/cocaine addiction. Our only requirement was that he not show up high when volunteering. Steve has told us, “I didn’t think it was respectful to show up hung over or carrying a pipe in my pocket, so I decided to finally give up the pipe for good.” Since that time he has remained clean and sober working to become a very important part of the UCO/DIC program. Steve has become a trusted assistant learning a great deal about the work in our kitchen, showing up faithfully each week and any time he is needed. |
We have many success stories, but we are in need of your help right now. Please help us continue our work by making a donation by check or online at www.urbancommunityoutreach.org . We are a registered 501(c)3 and your donation is completely tax deductible. Your gift will have a large impact right now, while the need is great. Please accept my deep appreciation for supporting our program. It is generous donors like you that make our work possible.
Please make Checks Payable to UCO/DAYS You may send them to
UCO/DAYS
241 Cedar Ave
Long Beach, CA 90802
Or
Click on the Paypal button and follow the instructions PLease Non-Event in the memo/reason box
THANKS!
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