“Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.”
~ Booker T. Washington
There are many among us in need this holiday season, and there are many among us wanting to help our neighbors in need. This is the heart of our community. Here is a sampling of ways to help and to find help. Look for more ideas in our December edition of COLONY Magazine.
Atascadero Loaves & Fishes
The center and food pantry, located at 511 El Camino Real, is open from 1-3 p.m. Monday through Friday to distribute groceries and essential household items to those in need in Atascadero, Templeton, Santa Margarita, Creston, and California Valley. For more information, call 805-461-1504 or see atascaderoloaves.org.
Help is Needed!
Volunteer! Call Carol at 805-460-6582 or click on the Volunteer link at atascaderoloaves.org to learn more.
Donate! Mail a check to Atascadero Loaves & Fishes, 5411 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422 or click the Donate link at atascaderoloaves.org.
Atascadero Loaves & Fishes Holiday Project
The 2018 distribution event is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 12. Sign-ups will take place in early December, and all participants must pre-register. At press time, sign-up dates were unavailable; see atascaderoloaves.org/holiday-project.html for updates or call 805-461-1504 for more information. Be prepared to bring the following to registration: photo ID and 2018 proof of address for all adults in the household, and health insurance card for each child. All participants must live in the Atascadero Loaves & Fishes service area.
Atascadero Salvation Army
Families in need of assistance are encouraged to call 805-466-7201 or stop by the Salvation Army Service Center at 8420 El Camino Real Unit G on Wednesday or Thursday, 10 a.m. to noon.
The holiday kettle campaign helps generate funds to carry the organization through the entire fiscal year. With additional costs during the holiday season, and continued assistance with utility bills, food distribution, and other services to local families, the need for donations is urgent.
Help is Needed!
Be a Bell Ringer! Individuals, families, and groups help ring bells and collect funds at kettles daily Nov. 19 to Dec. 23, except Sundays. Volunteer for two-hour shifts; call 805-466-7201 to schedule a time slot.
ECHO Shelter
Since 2001, the El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) has provided critical case management and helped families and individuals find permanent
housing.
Services include safe shelter, meal program, and employment services including resume and job search assistance. For more information, call 805-462-3663 or stop by 6370 Atascadero Ave.
Help is Needed!
Volunteer! Be a meal provider, overnight chaperone, greeter, outdoor monitor, or intake worker. Or help with data input, laundry, and general clean-up. See echoshelter.org for more information.
Donate! Click on the Donate link at echoshelter.org or send a check to: ECHO, P.O. Box 2077, Atascadero, CA 93423.
Do you know of additional organizations or individuals offering help during the holiday season? Email meagan@pasomagazine.com by November 5.
From all of us at COLONY Magazine, Happy Thanksgiving!
