Among our 2015 spring grants was for United Way of Dunn County’s Gifts in Kind Program and their need for a replacement hand truck/dollie, pillow protectors and bed bug spray for mattresses donated to the GIK program.
Prior to receiving these funds, the volunteers at United Way had been lifting large appliances such as refrigerators and stoves without the assistance of a solid hand truck. The hand truck they had prior was old and had loose bolts, thus preventing them from using it for anything other than boxes and lighter objects. Having multiple volunteers lifting these appliances without a proper tool was a safety concern. They now have a brand new sturdy hand truck that has strap attachments, and just one volunteer is able to maneuver any heavy appliance with ease. The volunteers could not extend how appreciative they(and their backs) were to the Foundation for this addition to their warehouse.
Along with the hand truck, the foundation also provided funds for pillow protectors and bed bug spray to ensure mattresses are clean and bug free. These items are always needed at United Way to ensure a healthy living environment for their consumers. The Gifts in Kind Program is a free direct service providing building supplies, household furniture, appliances, linens and kitchen items to people struggling in today’s soceity.To find out more about United Way, visit their website at http://www.uwaydunn.org/
Article By Laura Giammattei