SAFFORD – Two organizations that rely on donations by the community are feeling a pinch right now – but for different reasons.
St. Vincent DePaul Society’s resale shop is closed during the pandemic. And that has changed what the charitable organization is seeking from the public.
“So we’re not accepting any donations right now of clothing, furniture or stuff. But we are accepting donations of food or money,” said Carmen Tellez.
St. Vincent De Paul Society continues to serve the public through its food bank, which is open Tuesday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to noon. Donations may be made during the time the food bank is open.
Graham County Rehabilitation Center’s thrift store is also closed due to the pandemic. But GCRC is still accepting donations of clothing.
That’s because clothing that can’t be sold to the public can be shredded into rags, which are sold to Freeport-McMoRan. Those funds help pay for the services GCRC provides to special needs children and adults in the Gila Valley.
Donations to GCRC are well behind the same time last year, although it’s not because of the pandemic – it’s due to the pink donation boxes seen across the Valley.
The boxes are operated by an organization based in Maricopa County and none of the donations benefit organizations or those living in Graham County.
Donations to GCRC can be dropped off in the alley behind the thrift store building, located on Safford’s Main Street.
Editor’s note: David Bell is a member of the GCRC board.
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