GIFTS and COVID-19
COVID-19 has been a challenge for GIFTS and the men we serve. A decrease in donations and volunteers has put a damper on quite a few things we have had planned this year. Nevertheless, we are "pressing towards the mark" and praying for all to blow over soon. Our men have been diligent with cleaning, taking temperatures every time a guest or volunteer comes into the building, and wearing masks inside the shelter and in the community. With volunteers sparse, the men have been serving meals themselves and providing coverage for key volunteer positions. This has been draining for our men, but God is good in that not so much as a cold has passed through the shelter.
In hopes of reigniting some volunteers, we have installed a large plexiglass sheet in between the kitchen and dining room. We also require masks for all volunteers and a temp check upon entering the building. The men are also sanitizing high traffic areas every hour.
We are slowly opening up to new guests and require them to have a negative COVID test prior to entering our program. This of course puts a strain on these men with having to wait days for their results. With colder temps coming, we are working out our plan for emergency stays and our Extreme Weather Shelter. Please keep checking back for updates.
In regards to our Thrift Store, we unfortunately made the decision to postpone our Grand Opening that was scheduled for November 7, until spring/summer 2021. With a lack of volunteers, and the gathering restrictions of COVID, we decided now was not the right time to have this event. While we are not quite ready to open for shoppers due to a lack of volunteers, we are accepting donations on Monday-Thursday between 10am-5pm at the side door on Alden Rd.
We are accepting monetary donations in person, through mail, and here on our Give page. We are also accepting food donations at 1025 N. Washington St, Janesville, WI. All clothing and other donation items should be taken to 1141 Blackbridge Rd, Janesville, WI.