Brandon Twp.- The Ortonville Community Emergency Fund is preparing for one of their biggest fundraisers as their stock diminishes and the Michigan economy increases the number of families seeking help from the non-profit organization.
‘Demand is growing with the employment situation in Michigan,? says OCEF member Sue Roberts. ‘Stock and summer contributions are low. This is the time of year we really need to replenish food and funds.?
The third annual OCEF sale will be 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. or later, Sept. 14-16, at St. Anne Church, 825 Ortonville Road. Donations of books, collectibles, toys, household items, tools, sporting goods, furniture and miscellaneous items will be accepted for the sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sept. 12 at the church.
Everything donated must be in saleable condition. No old mattresses, broken appliances, tires or used building materials will be accepted. OCEF volunteers ask that clothing be saved for a clothing drive that is being planned for October.
The OCEF Sale raised $4,500 last year, in spite of torrential rainstorms. The amount was $1,000 more than the first year of the sale. All proceeds are used to restock the food pantry and Thanksgiving and Christmas food baskets, as well as emergency crisis situations relating to food.
Currently, 80 families are using the pantry, most with school-age children.
Nothing is wasted from the sale. Some charities request unsold items, such as old towels and blankets for animal rescue, and craft items for Genesys Regional Medical Center.
All donated items are tax-deductible, and receipts are offered. Items are sold at low, reasonable prices, says Roberts. Many items are $1 or less and all are priced to move.
‘This is our way in the community to show we care and support each other in hard times,? says Roberts. ‘We give hope to cope. Usually, people have exhausted all other avenues when they get to the food pantry. That’s why we have OCEF.?
For more information or to volunteer for the OCEF Sale, call Sue Roberts at (248) 625-9110. Families needing assistance can contact Judy Henley at (248) 627-3965.