Neighbor for Neighbor recently completed their Treasures and Treats fund-raiser, collecting $2,335.20 to help food pantries, provide clothes for the needy and financial assistance for those facing eviction and/or utility shut-off.
Visitors to the event bought homemade baked goods and one-of-a-kind donated items at the Hart Community Center in Davisburg.
‘We had a real good turnout both days. We raised more money than we ever had in the past,? Vice President Peg Hill said.
‘Our volunteers baked and donated hundreds of treats for the sale. The variety and quantity was amazing, we had everything from apple pies to zucchini bread,? Sally Henning, Neighbor for Neighbor secretary added.
The all volunteer, nonprofit organization began in 1983 to help the poor, including those laid off from the auto industry, explained Executive Director Ruth Karash.
Karash credited many area residents ? Norris and Collin Walls, Helen Virgin, John Hovis, Don Booth and Harold Fineman ? for creating the organization.
‘We tried to serve a wide group of people below the povery line by providing aid or contact avenues to get them help they needed,? Norris Walls said.
The group has grown over the years, but still continues along the same founding values serving low-income families in Springfield, Holly, Groveland, Rose and parts of Independence and White Lake Townships.
‘We do a lot more financial aid now than in the past,? Karash said. ‘Funding comes in part from government grants like the Community Development Block Grant Fund from Springfield and Groveland Townships, as well as from private donations.?
Neighbor for Neighbor is located in Davisburg and provides services yearlong. Large fund-raisers, like Treasures and Treats, occur twice a year, in the spring and fall.
Those in need of aid or interested in donating clean, seasonal items, small household items or time in the food pantry can call 248-634-0900.