By David Fleet
947-244-2647
dfleet@mihomepaper.com
Atlas Twp. — Area residents seeking to assist area veterans can do so by looking for the “big red tubs.”
The Goodrich United Methodist Church, 8071 S State Road, Goodrich have teamed up Davison-based Strength in Numbers in a grass-roots effort to provide a variety of items for area veterans that may need some help. Area businesses have been provided red tubes for collection.
Renee Verbeke founded Strength in Numbers a few ago with the help of family and friends to assist veterans in need. They also support Lapeer, Tuscola, Huron County Habitat for Humanity. Funded entirely by donations, all veterans are “vetted” before receiving assistance with most being referred by local veteran agencies such as Genesee County Veteran Services, OLSHA, or VA Hud-Vash program. Veterans provide a questionnaire and their DD-214.
Locally, red boxes are located at Brown’s Do-it Center, 7281 S. State Road, Sims Cafe, 8157 S. State Road and the GUMC to drop off items.
“Strength In Numbers provides a full food pantry and storage area on the property that featuring items a veteran would need to move out of the shelter and into housing,” she said. Items include new bedding, dishes, pots/pans, silverware, glasses, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, shower curtain/rugs, bath and kitchen towels. Also, gently used living room, kitchen furniture, and dressers.
“The veteran is not always leaving a shelter,” said Verbeke. “Maybe it is just a situation of starting over or their child needs a bed. We fill whatever needs we are able to or find help if we can’t. We partner with many other groups to make all of this happen such as the Mid-Michigan Veterans Coalition.”
Donations can also be dropped off at 705 E. Flint St., Davison after calling or texting Renee at 810-877-3326 or Jeannine Page-Tear at the Goodrich United Methodist Church 810-636-3244