Charles City Community Den provides assistance to community

Several items donated to Charles City's Community Den will assist families in need.

Robb Johnson photos

When talking about providing a helping hand, the assumption that many people have is that an area is poor. However, stereotypes can be debunked and despite some struggles, there are outreaches to the community for people who need assistance. One such is the Charles City Community Den.

Located in the rear of the Charles City school board building, the den opened in March of this. Spearheaded by school social worker Stephanie Leek, Jennifer Richardson, and Kristina Williams, the idea came to fruition after a plethora of ideas formed into a strategic plan.

The community den provides a place where families in need can pick up items if they cannot afford them. Among items available include dental hygiene products, school supplies, household supplies, infant clothing, shoes, books, food, and informational resources. The den also has two computers connected to the Internet that will allow people to hone skills when searching for jobs or information.

The den is stocked through donations. Among contributors include the Charles City Educational Foundation, superintendent of schools David Gaston, and local religious organizations.

“The churches have done their drives and their mission projects,” said Leek. “Most of the donations have been here in the county where people come in and say I will bring you my stuff and the great thing is that everything is free.

“We want to help supplement people and as a school division social worker, we recognize that our kids can’t come to school and learn if basic needs are not there,” Leek added. “That is where this all started from. We wanted to help meet some of those basic needs.”

Williams provided her thoughts on the program and how it benefits the county as a whole.

“This is a way to hep unite people who may not be connected otherwise,” she said. “A lot of our people that come in and have access to the items are also asking how do I volunteer and what can I do to help.”

The den is opened once a month during the summer, with the next taking place on Aug. 13. Donations of toiletries, cleaning supplies, and more are currently being accepted.

If you have any questions or want to make a donation, please contact Williams at 393-0264.

Stephanie Leek (left) and Kristina Williams (right) are among those who helped launch the community den.