Nationwide, people are dealing with record-high inflation—causing some to prioritize holiday shopping. Inflation is also hurting local nonprofits, making it hard for them to help those in need this holiday season.

Local nonprofits in Paducah are attempting to tackle this issue by meeting to discuss last-minute resource gatherings. They are also asking the community to make one final donation to assist someone in need before the year ends.

Independence Bank hosts quarterly meetings for nonprofits in the area. It’s an effort spanning over 12 years. Bob Wade, Independence Bank Vice President, said the meeting allows those from the nonprofits to express their concerns and needs and to network with each other.

“We have great givers in this community,” Wade said. “We want to maximize the dollars they give to serve as many people as possible.”

30 nonprofits attended the meeting, providing the perfect networking pool. “That’s the neat thing about the secret sauce this provides,” Wade explains.

Most nonprofits need food, water, and toys. Taylor Shaw, a program representative with Youth Villages, said they are trying to impact west Kentucky significantly.
“We’re Hoping to provide 400 families with holiday gifts this season,” Shaw said. “We need monetary funds. We need donations of toys or anything that can be offered, so we can help provide some holiday magic for our kiddos and fosters here on our side of the state.”

Jessica Ashworth, a communication manager at LivWell Community Health Service, said they need clothes for adults.

“Men’s and women’s clothing is the only thing that we can take at this moment,” Ashworth explains. “Men’s specifically, and it just has to be clean and laundered before it is delivered.”

While many nonprofits seek more resources, Stephanie Moss, the Child Watch Counseling and Advocacy Center Program Director, said they need volunteers willing to dedicate their time to a foster child in need. “At any given time, we serve about 100 children,” she said. “The most valuable asset that we look for is your time. So, if anybody does want to be a volunteer advocate, it is a long-term commitment, but you’re there to support a child in foster care.”

Originally published WPSD Local 6
Jeremiah Hatcher
November 10, 2023