Outreach center aids many here
By Sue Crise
The Community Outreach Center (COC) provides help for children, senior citizens, homeless, disabled, working poor, and disaster victims. The building is located at 406 E. 4th Street.
Many folks called it the “Purple Building” because it was painted purple, but thanks to the youth at New Hope Baptist, the color is now beige. Food is given out to those who qualify on Tuesday mornings, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The COC began as a ministry of Tanya and Linda Gill. Tanya is the daughter of Don and Melba Moss, current directors at the COC. The COC became a ministry of New Hope Baptist in September 2007 and is a non-profit organization.
From that time to the present, 56,047 pounds of food have been distributed. During the month of June 2008, the COC served 161 families with 5,733 pounds of food.
The COC’s main purpose is to provide supplementary food for those who qualify. Food is provided by Second Harvest of Lafayette. The COC also has a Thrift Store that provides clothing at a minimal cost. Funds from the Thrift Store help pay the rent and utilities for the building.
To qualify for assistance, bring your photo identification, social security card for each family member in need, proof of ALL income, such as income check or bank statement, and proof of residency, such as a current utility bill.
Persons are automatically qualified if they are on (and have proof) of an active food stamp card, SSI or AFDC. Eligibility will be determined by the guidelines of the income scale. Each qualifying client will be given food one time per month.
Anyone can become a volunteer by showing up on Tuesday mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and help stock the food pantry and prepare food boxes. Help is also needed to sort and hang clothing. Donation of clothing is not requested at this time as there is not enough storage space. Monetary donations, which are tax deductible, are welcome and greatly appreciated along with donations of toiletry items, cleaning supplies or non-prescription medicines.
All businesses, churches and individuals are invited to help make a difference in the life of the DeQuincy community and surrounding areas. The COC has already received donations from the Sale Barn, Market Basket, and local schools.
The COC is sponsored by New Hope Baptist, First Baptist, and DeQuincy United Methodist churches. Please contact Don or Melba Moss at 786-6512 if would like to help sponsor this ministry. You may also contact New Hope Baptist at 786-7520.
