What’s Happening: Two prominent community organizations in Isabella County—the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation and United Way of Gratiot & Isabella Counties—are collaborating in May to support mothers, children, and families in the area. They are sponsoring supply collection drives to aid local residents through various area nonprofits.
Why It’s Important: These drives address crucial needs within the community, ensuring that essential items reach those who require assistance the most. By partnering with local nonprofits, the organizations aim to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and families.
“The Community Foundation and United Way create a powerful force to help local nonprofits address the needs of our neighbors, friends and family members,” Foundation CEO Alysha Pasquali said. “With incredible support from community members, we’re all working together to do the greatest possible good for those around us.”
Who’s Involved: The Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation's Women’s Initiative is coordinating Kay’s Way, a supply collection drive targeting women and children in need. The drive benefits organizations such as the Isabella County Child Advocacy Center, Foster Closet of Michigan - Isabella County, and R.I.S.E Advocacy. Kay’s Way began during the pandemic to gather items needed including hygiene products, twin sheets, cleaning supplies, gas cards, underwear and hair products. Monetary donations can be made through the Foundation as well. This year’s drive is May 13 through 24.
United Way of Gratiot & Isabella Counties is spearheading United for Moms, focusing on collecting personal care items, cleaning products, and baby items. Beneficiary organizations in Isabella County include Community Compassion Network Infant Pantry, Life Choices of Central Michigan, R.I.S.E. Advocacy, and The Care Store in Isabella County. United for Moms collection runs through May 16, culminating with a collection event at the Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market on May 16.
Gratiot County-participating nonprofits for United For Moms include Child Advocacy, Gratiot Community Personal Needs Pantry, Pompeii Baby Pantry and Pregnancy Services of Gratiot County. The final collection event is May 15 at Community Church: Alma Campus.
Participating businesses supporting the drives include Krapohl Ford & Lincoln, Weichert Realtors Broadway Realty, and Community Church: Alma Campus.
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Photo Courtesy the United Way of Gratiot & Isabella Counties.
What They’re Saying: Annie Sanders, United Way president and CEO, said United for Moms, in its second year, rallies people in honor of Mother’s Day to fill essential gaps experienced by so many in the community.
“Mother’s Day celebrates the influence of mothers and reminds us we have opportunities to support those around us,” Sanders said. “Our community is very much like a family in coming together.”
How You Can Help: Community members can contribute by donating essential items or monetary funds. Collection sites for Kay’s Way include Krapohl Ford & Lincoln and Weichert Realtors Broadway Realty. Additionally, Krapohl Ford & Lincoln will host a special Oil Change Day on May 22, with all proceeds from oil changes donated to the supply drive. Follow the organizations on Facebook or visit their websites for more information.
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