Two local charities recently received a combined $1,600 thanks to the generosity of Oxford Bank’s casual-dressing employees.
Oxford-Orion FISH and the Problem Pregnancy Center of Oxford were each the recipents of $800 donations generated by Oxford Bank’s “Dress Down for Charity” program.
Under the program, bank employees can donate at least $1 to charity in exchange for the opportunity to wear casual attire on the fourth Friday of each month.
During the 2003 fiscal year, bank employees donated an impressive $1,600. A vote of the employees determined which charities would receive the money.
“We’re definitely pleased,” said Oakland Township resident Sandy Weaver, who serves as treasurer for Oxford-Orion FISH. “There’s so much we can do with this. This will definitely help.”
Based inside Immanuel Congregational Church on Hovey St., FISH provides immediate assistance such as food, clothing and financial assistance in crisis situations to low-income families and senior citizens, while at the same time providing a range of services designed to bring independence and self-sufficiency to those they serve.
“A simple ‘thank you’ cannot express our gratitude and appreciation for what they’ve done,” said Darlene Hendrix, a representative for the Problem Pregnancy Center of Oxford. “This will help us keep our doors open and continue to provide services and materials to those in need. This (donation) just means so much to us.”
The Problem Pregnancy Center of Oxford helps expectant mothers find practical ways to overcome the difficulties of an unplanned pregnancy.
Located in the northwest quadrant of downtown Oxford, the center provides emotional services and resource information for educational, legal, financial and social assistance.
Help with maternity and baby clothes, furniture and other items is also available along with parenting classes.