The need for poverty-based emergency services remains at a high level.
That’s the assessment from Rescue Mission and Abundant Harvest Director Lee Alderman, who joined KVOE’s Morning Show on Tuesday. During the interview, he called the need “shocking.”
Alderman says traffic is down slightly at Abundant Harvest’s traditional evening meals, but traffic is up for its morning commodity giveaways. He also has noticed a spike in traffic at the charity’s clothing store.
Traffic hasn’t been as heavy at the Emporia Rescue Mission as it has been in the past. Alderman attributes that to recent rules changes that limit the number of methamphetamine addicts at the facility and also focus admission more towards local or area men seeking immediate help.
Separately. Alderman says the Rescue Mission is moving closer to having a new home. The owners of Emporia’s Kwik Shop has announced an expansion and reconfiguration, which is prompting the move. Alderman says the Rescue Mission’s board has found a potential location near downtown, although that property may need upwards of $200,000 in renovations before it would be ready for use.
As part of a deal announced by Alderman earlier this year, the Rescue Mission needs to be out of its current location at 1119 Merchant by springtime.
For more information or to donate, call Alderman at 794-2977.
