Traverse City Record-Eagle

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December 16, 2011

Forum: Those who 'fall between cracks'

By MARTIE MANTY ----

At this time of year, many turn to The Father Fred Foundation, wanting to know how they can help.

The simplest answer, frankly, is cash donations.

As the numbers of visits for help continue to climb, we find many families are consolidating and sharing households. The challenges of solving problems around utility bills, transportation needs, medical expenses and prescriptions are surpassing our financial resources.

Our founder, the Rev. Edwin Frederick, better known as "Father Fred," often said, "We take care of the people who fall between the cracks."

That has never been truer.

Not long ago, an unemployed father of eight came to the foundation, seeking food for his family. On his food pantry preference sheet, he also checked off toothpaste, deodorant, laundry detergent, shampoo and diapers. Unfortunately, our shelves were bare of these very basic supplies. And such personal care items are not allowable purchases with a Bridge card, today's version of food stamps.

Cash donations make it possible for the foundation to purchase these essentials at discounted prices. As importantly, cash gifts also help us get someone to a dental clinic for a raging toothache, address a pending utility shut-off, purchase boots to keep feet dry and warm, provide for a gas card to keep a doctor's appointment and a wide variety of other critical needs that arise when money is scarce.

One of the beautiful things about the Father Fred Foundation -- and there are many -- is that most of us couldn't pay to turn someone else's electricity back on or put gas in a propane tank. But with many donating what they can afford, these solutions become possible.

What does it mean to our guests?

"To have that feeling of not knowing what to do, or where to go, to feel no hope, to feel devastated because as parents, we should be able to take care of our kids -- this has all been taken away," wrote one mom. "Thank you very much for the support."

From another: "Your help with a phone got me a job. Your clothes gave me proper dress and your bus pass got me to work. I was on my last bit of hope until your organization helped me. Thank you."

Our community has always come through for Father Fred. We need and so appreciate the donations of food, clothing and household goods that come our way on a daily basis. Our thanks to you is heartfelt.

But if you're wondering what is most needed this holiday season, we hope you will put Father Fred on your list with a cash gift. Please join us in caring for "the people who fall between the cracks."

About the author: Martie Manty is executive director of the Father Fred Foundation, serving individuals and families in the five-county Grand Traverse region. With a small staff and about 150 volunteers, the privately funded foundation provides clothing, food, household goods and financial assistance from its location at 826 Hastings.

About the forum: The forum is a periodic column of opinion written by Record-Eagle readers in their areas of interest or expertise. Submissions of 500 words or less may be made by emailing letters@record-eagle.com. Please include biographical information and a photo.

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