As a participant in Blog Action Day 2008, I asked everyone I know for information on programs (actual or planned) which combat poverty.

Since distributing that appeal for information in August, the numbers of those facing impoverishment may have risen due to economic woes confronting the world. It’s a confusing time when some of those who freely give of their own time and talents may be facing financial challenges of their own.

While I didn’t hear back from very many of the people I contacted, what I DID discover was some very good information on what’s happening right here in my community. So, here’s a brief rundown on local efforts to assist those who need a helping hand.

The Yavapai Coalition for Compassion and Justice administers several programs which address poverty:

Open Door distributes winter clothing, coats, and blankets for kids and adults. This year’s distribution event will be held from 10:00 – 4:00, Saturday October 18 at Miller Valley School’s cafeteria. Note: children must be present for an individual to receive a donation. Open Door also provides provides emergency assistance to people in our community who are struggling financially. They provide hot meals, food boxes, clothing, showers, a mail service and use of a phone, toys, diapers and toiletries; we also have gas and laundry vouchers available for the first two eligible people who apply each day we are open.

For more information on Open Door, contact them at 928-776-9294 or by email at opendoor@YavapaiCCJ.org .

Circles of Support helps motivated families transition from poverty to self-sufficiency, enabling them to gain economic stability and learn about social interdependence. Circles of Support surrounds these families with well-trained community volunteer mentors who offer guidance and support. Participating family members also attend regular “Circles of Support� meetings and can access coaching in the areas of job acquisition and retention, medical, housing, nutrition, clothing, childcare, budgeting and finance and automobile acquisition, maintenance and insurance. For more information on Circles of Support, contact circlesofsupport@YavapaiCCJ.org .

Home Repair Program: CCJ is aware that significant numbers of low income homeowners live in houses that are unsafe or unhealthy; many of the owners do not have the financial means or the skills to improve the conditions, and there is a need for a volunteer service organization to help out. Applications for repairs are accepted only as referrals from social service agencies and various faith-based organizations. Applications that have passed a screening process are prioritized. The repair work is then performed by volunteers to the extent possible, or by professionals as necessary. To learn more, or become involved with Home Repair as a volunteer, contact homerepair@YavapaiCCJ.org.

When temperatures dip and the furnaces and fireplaces fire up, our thoughts go to those living on the street here in our high altitude climate. Homeless men in Prescott can find shelter from the cold at Project Aware Mens’ Shelter downtown. Contact the shelter at 928-778-7744.

The American Cancer Society has two cancer resource centers in Yavapai County. The resource centers offer free services to cancer patients and their families, such as free wigs, hats, scarves, mastectomy bras and prosthesis. Information on specific cancers and treatments is also availabale. The “Reach to Recovery” program is a visit by a trained breast cancer survivor counselor. “Look Good Feel Better” is a program to teach women in cancer treatment how to care for their skin and deal with hair loss. Also available are help with housing arrangements (if treatment is out of town) and help with transportation to treatments. All of these services are free and staffed by trained volunteers. Having cancer is difficult, getting help shouldn’t be. The two cancer centers are located at:
Arizona Oncology in Prescott Valley, AZ
Northern Arizona Tumor Institute in Prescott, AZ
(submitted by Roberta Winker, who can be reached here: winker-at-cableone-dot-net)

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