In response to the impending closure of Loveland’s overnight shelter, local nonprofit and faith-based organizations are organizing a community drive titled “Stuff the Truck”. Scheduled for Saturday, September 30, 2023, the event will take place at Zion Lutheran Church, located at 815 E. 16th St., to gather essential items for those affected by the shelter’s shutdown.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Loveland Partner Agency Council, which comprises twelve local community organizations. They are seeking donations of new or gently used winter clothing, including coats, boots, gloves, hats, thermals, jeans, and sweatpants. Additionally, hygiene products and nonperishable food items will be accepted. Blankets and tarps are also welcome.
Community Urged to Participate
Volunteers will facilitate a drive-thru donation process, making it easy for residents to contribute. Attendees can enjoy free coffee and refreshments provided by Retreat Bakery Bar and Loveland’s Community Kitchen.
The closure of the South Railroad Facility, which currently serves as the city’s overnight tent shelter, is set to eliminate 50 beds. Following the closure, Loveland plans to provide overnight shelter during severe weather conditions at the Loveland Resource Center on South Lincoln Avenue.
“The closure of Loveland’s overnight shelter highlights a deeper crisis: our community lacks the year-round infrastructure to ensure every neighbor has a safe place to sleep,” stated Olga Duvall, director of the Salvation Army Service Center, in a media release. “While long-term solutions are urgently needed, Stuff the Truck is a way for the community to step in right now, making sure people have coats, boots, and other essentials to survive the winter.”
Focus on Immediate Needs
Items collected during Saturday’s event will be prioritized for individuals displaced by the shelter’s closure. Any remaining donations will be distributed to local nonprofits that provide services to the homeless population.
The Loveland Partner Agency Council is a coalition that includes various non-profit organizations, churches, and service providers such as Alternatives to Violence, Disabled Resource Services, Family Housing Network, Homeward Alliance, House of Neighborly Services, Love First Disciples, The Matthews House, and SummitStone Health Partners. This coalition regularly meets to coordinate services for homeless individuals in Loveland.
Residents interested in learning more about the drive or seeking assistance can contact the Salvation Army at 970-699-8380 or via email at [email protected].
The “Stuff the Truck” drive represents a crucial opportunity for the Loveland community to come together and support its most vulnerable residents during a challenging time.