On Wednesday, March 4, 2015, Diane Frate and Lisa Slen, [photo above- left to right], spent the morning volunteering at Person2Person in Darien, CT. Their time was devoted to sorting through bags and bins of clothing donated from area families/businesses.
Once the items were separated by size/gender, they were hung and placed in the proper area for easy access. Worn clothing was placed in bins that are sent to third world countries. Every item that comes to P2P is used, nothing is wasted.
Lisa and Diane had the opportunity to see how the operation is run first hand. Four clients at a time are allowed in to shop for their families. They are allotted 30 minutes. The volunteers keep track of the time and announce when their time is up for the next group. Items that go very quickly are the children’s clothing, blankets, and household supplies.
In 2014, through the generosity of all who made a contribution of time or treasure – more than 1,600 individuals, businesses, foundations, schools, congregations and community organizations – they were able to provide financial assistance, food, clothing and housing assistance to 23,888 men, women. In addition, 50,731 bags of free clothing were provided to 12,819 people in the surrounding communities.
Lisa and Diane were a part of this amazing shift and impactful contribution by many others in the community. They also made new friends and worked side-by-side with volunteers who devoted their time for 20 years! Both enjoyed volunteering and upon leaving were asked “Will you be back next Wednesday”? They both plan on returning in the very near future.
[By Diane Frate]
