CT Valley News - 10/22/2004
By: Glenn M. Shafer, Staff Writer
Gifts of Love relocates to Old Avon Village
AVON - The people who help others in need had their
own crisis this past month. After a September fire
destroyed their location at One Canal Court in Avon,
Gifts of Love has relocated to building #35 of Old
Avon Village.
Gifts of Love is a non-profit organization dedicated
to helping people in crisis by providing clothing,
food, and household items.
Executive Director Mary Ann Steele wants the community
to know they have resurfaced in a great location.
"We have about 2900 square feet and plenty
of room," said Steele. "We are taking
donations again in a few weeks when we reopen. Until
then, we are getting the space ready by painting,
organizing, and we are in need of desks and shelving."
Gifts of Love was founded in 1989 and has provided
for the working poor, low-wage families and anyone
in crisis. One hundred-fifty families are served
once a month and another 150 families experienced
a crisis and were recipients of items last year.
Overall, 1300 people were helped last year by Gifts
of Love. All items are donated and can be claimed
as a tax deduction. Clothing is accepted on a seasonal
basis. Currently, they are accepting winter clothes.
The new location is at 35 East Main St. in Avon.
The August family who manages the Old Avon Village
reached out to Gifts of Love immediately after their
fire was reported. "They arranged space for
us that was workable and at a non-profit rate. They
are very special," said Steele.
"We are honored to have such a wonderful organization
be a part of our community," said Old Avon
Village Property Manager Ann August. "We firmly
believe in their mission to provide temporary assistance
in the form of food, clothing, household items,
and furniture to families experiencing financial
crisis and we will assist them in collecting donations."
Until Gifts of Love re-opens, they are only asking
for cash gifts. They do not want donors to leave
items until they are ready to receive them. During
Thanksgiving and Christmas, they will be providing
dinners and gifts to families. Donors are able to
sponsor families in need.
Food has been collected by local Jewish synagogues
while Gifts of Love completes their relocation.
Their furniture was stored off site and was not
damaged in the fire. "We are thrilled to have
a new home," said Steele. "It's a nice
setting. All of the retailers will be supportive.
It was a very positive move."
This weekend marks the 3rd Annual Gifts of Love
Fashion Show held at Avon Country Club, their primary
fund-raiser. Other funding comes from individuals,
private and corporate foundations, and local businesses.
Families in need should contact a social service
agency, their town social worker, doctor, or local
pastor to see if they qualify for Gifts of Love.
Gifts of Love can be contacted by calling 676-2323.
Checks can be mailed to their old address at One
Canal Court, Avon, CT 06001.
