As we start a new year, many are looking for new ways to engage and give back to our community. The Barry County United Way is here to help fill those New Year’s resolutions of philanthropy by providing a variety of ways to volunteer, donate or support our local non-profit organizations. Each year the Barry County United Way collects a list of “needs” from our local agencies to help them better serve our community. We combine them all into one comprehensive listing for our community – our Barry County community who is always eager to support, volunteer and prove assistance to those in need.
The “New Year’s Needs” wish list provides a way for individuals to personalize gifts for agencies in our community that serve residents throughout Barry County. While many of the agencies have listed “items” they would like to receive, others are in need of volunteers. Volunteers play a vital role in the work that area agencies do and can make a tremendous difference in the lives of those they assist.
For more information, contact Morgan Johnson at the Barry County United Way Volunteer Center at 269-945-4010. Wish List items can be dropped off at the local agency that is requesting the item or can be brought to the Barry County United Way Volunteer Center at 231 S. Broadway in Hastings for distribution.
The “New Year’s Needs” list follows:
Barry County United Way – Improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of Barry County Communities.
Volunteers for VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program – no experience necessary. They will train.
For the Fresh Food Initiative: peanut butter, canned tuna/chicken
Contact Morgan Johnson, 269-945-4010
Family Support Center of Barry County – The Family Support Center of Barry County (FSC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families and supporting children through education, resources, and community programs. They provide parent education, concrete supports, and outreach services that promote healthy family relationships and child well-being, while fostering connections between families, community partners, and local resources.
Diapers: (All sizes (Newborn – Size 6)
Pull-ups for toddlers
Diaper Wipes (Regular or sensitive skin; Travel packs for on-the-go families)
Diaper Rash Cream (Standard tubes or small travel sizes)
Walmart gift cards ($10, $25, $50 suggested)
Gas gift cards ($10, $25, $50 suggested)
Barry Bucks – any denomination
Contact Bill Mattson, 269-945-5439
Pierce Cedar Creek Institute – Set on 850 acres in rural Barry County. PCCI, is a mix between an environmental education center, nature center, and biological field station, provides visitors opportunities for education, recreation, research, and exposure to a blend of diverse habitats including wetlands, forests, marshes, streams, lakes, and prairies.
Riding mower for trails
Volunteers needed – Mondays to clean seed. Stop by between 11am- 4 pm.
Contact Drew Vandegrift, 269-721-4198
St. Rose of Lima Catholic School – St. Rose of Lima Catholic School has been serving Hastings and the surrounding community for over 100 years. They are committed to preparing responsible and compassionate citizens by nurturing their relationship with Jesus, promoting academic excellence, and developing leadership through service.
Electric pencil sharpener
Angel Fund Scholarship donations of $50-$1000
Learning Resources STEM Force & Motion Activity Set
Copy Paper
Contact Diane Bennett, 269-945-3164
The Shack – A totally free outreach providing clothing, shoes, bedding, towels and more – available to everyone regardless of income or residency. Run completely on donations and volunteers.
Volunteers to work during open hours (Thurs 2-6 and Sat 10-2)
Painting of building & possible masonry repair of blocks
Personalized outside signs
Sidewalk Salt
New underwear (all sizes)
Waterproof gloves Resealable baggies (quart or gallon size)
13gal garbage bags
Cases of bottled water
Paper towels
Duct tape (red or green)
Contact Kathy Forsyth, 269-207-2515
Drop off items – Drop off directly to The Shack during their OPEN HOURS. Otherwise, drop off at BCUW office.
Thornapple Manor – A campus that meets the needs of many different elders in our Community by providing Long Term Care, Memory Care and Assisted Living.
Music Volunteers, Volunteers who have a specific skill they might like to share with residents
Small items for BINGO Store
Regular size candy bar for our bingo store
Men’s and women’s items we can use for birthday gifts (fun socks, body wash, ETC)
Books
Puzzles (750 pieces and below)
Contact Tara Beach, 269-945-1301
YMCA of Barry County – The YMCA provides summer overnight camp and day camp at Camp Algonquin and year-round Y Time childcare for ages 2.5 – 12 at our new building on Iroquois Trail. We also provide youth sports, family recreation, and outreach programs such as Summer Playground, Y on the Fly, and the B. Bus Mobile Library in and around Barry County. We give kids and families time away from screens to build skills and self confidence.
Volunteer coaches for youth sports
Business sponsorships for youth sports and growing Turkey Trot
Gas cards for Y on the Fly vehicles
Positive support when you see the YMCA out in the community!
Contact Jon Sporer, 269-945-4574
