BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — A nonprofit organization in Battle Creek is back out distributing essentials like food and hygiene products for neighborhoods who seem to have been hit the hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic.
When cars show up to the distributions, organizers with R.I.S.E. Corp said there are generally multiple families in one vehicle. Some of the people even ask to collect extra supplies for households that couldn't make it.
That's why R.I.S.E. Corp said they continue to do what they do, especially while families are hurting because of the pandemic.
"We’re constantly seeing our numbers grow each week. When we started this we were at around 40 families a week. That maybe lasted one or two weeks. Now, here we are at 300 families," said the president and co-founder of R.I.S.E. Corp Damon Brown.
Back in September, FOX 17 News spoke with Damon Brown, the president and co-founder of R.I.S.E. Corp in Battle Creek, who has been hosting distributions of basic necessities to families in need.
"When I go to the stores and gas stations, I see my neighbors. To see the need and have an opportunity to be able to do something about that and not do it would be a disservice to my community," said Brown.
Funded through United Way's Disaster Relief Fund and community donors, R.I.S.E. Corp is restarting distribution efforts for the new year after taking a break.
"We are making sure there is fresh produce, vegetables and fruit. We give out protein products like chicken, turkey, hamburgers and different things like that. We also give out cleaning supplies and hygiene products," said Brown.
The nonprofit even helps with rental and utility assistance for some families.
The distributions focusing on those in the Washington Heights and Post Franklin neighborhoods where anyone in need can go.
"It’s open door from all walks of life, and at this time if someone is in need or financially distressed or you just need a little bit of help, you can come up," said Brown.
Distribution efforts start January 15 and 16 at 3 p.m. until supplies run out.
Distributions planned this week:
- January 15 at the Washington Heights United Methodist Church on 153 N. Wood Street
- January 16 at St. Marks CME Church on 59 Illinois Street
Both distributions start at 3 p.m. until supplies last. The distributions are planned for the next eight weeks.
To donate, you can contact R.I.S.E. Corp:
- Email: risecorpprogram@gmail.com
- Phone: Damon Brown at (269) 358-9466
- Cash App: @$risecorp
