Anyone’s life can take a turn for the worst when you lose the most basic necessities due to sickness, unemployment or other extenuating circumstances. Homelessness is a problem, and not just in urban locations. In January 2010, the Alachua County Coalition for the Homeless and Hungry counted 1,292 people in the homeless population. A year later, the homeless and displaced population of Gainesville still needs all the help it can get.
St. Francis House is the only homeless shelter in town. You can read about their large role in providing help to our community here.
What can WE do?
Well, there’s a lot we can do. This month, Pledge 5 Foundation asks you to join the cause and pledge to donate gently-used clothing to the St. Francis House. There are boxes set up all around town for your donating convenience!
Not only will you help someone out by keeping them warm during these winter months, but donating clothing items such as suits and shoes can give an unemployed person the confidence to interview for a job and get them one step closer to leading a self-sufficient lifestyle. A small deed like cleaning out your closet can make a big difference.
St. Francis House doesn’t just help clothe the city’s homeless. It’s also a soup kitchen. Contact Jared Salter, the volunteer coordinator at (352) 378-9079 ext. 317 to see how you can be a server.
Then, put all your bets on us! Donate your clothing and play with us at the “Taking It off for Charity” Poker Tournament on January 28. See you there!
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