Our March GIVE Project had us revisiting one of our favorite non-profits in the Spring Lake area, The People Center. We couldn’t believe it had been almost 4 years since we had highlighted this amazing organization. Their beautiful blue sign off from the main road going through the heart of Spring Lake always displays their current needs and donation suggestions. And for one of our team members, it is a daily reminder as she drives into work, the continued need in our community.
When we contacted Karen Reenders, who has been the director for 21 years, and asked how we could give; they decided on a spring “clean-up” theme. So, we had the privilege of purchasing a large shipment of household cleaning and hygiene products to help stock their pantry.
A few members of our team returned to The People Center to hear Karen share what has changed and what remains constant. One of the changes coming is that there will be a small expansion of their current pantry which provides for 300-400 families a month. It will be a welcome addition to have a larger and more efficient space to serve those in our community.
What remains the same is their goal to provide consistent help to those needing anything from food and clothing, to longer term help through their housing program. The People Center has 6 apartments that allow eligible clients to live rent free for up to 6 months, allowing them time to save money and get out of debt. During that time the residents take classes to learn about finances to help them in the future, secure work and a home. We’ve been blessed to help someone from that program buy their first home!
We are so thankful to be able to highlight the People Center again. It continues to be a source of hope to so many and it is all because of their amazing volunteers and our generous community. If you are looking for a way to give back, consider volunteering by calling 616-844-6710 to provide a small amount of your time or keep an eye out for their blue sign to see how you can donate.