Standing in the G.A.P. for Grandview

In 1991 Linda Wilson had a vision to serve the needs of Grandview residents who were not eligible for help from government sources. With Rev. Carol Clark, Sarah Plunkett, Kevin Watson and other dedicated pastors, business leaders and residents, she formed the nonprofit organization Grandview Assistance Program, known as G.A.P. Their main function is as a food pantry and provider of hygiene products. Financial assistance is given for rent and utilities in extreme circumstances. In August, school supplies are distributed. At Christmas, the holiday store provides a large food box, gifts for children, winter outerwear, blankets, gift wrap, and hygiene packs.

Fast forward to 2004 when Sharon Kinder began working as a part time caseworker at G.A.P. She was named director the following January. Sharon’s husband is retired Navy. As a navy wife she had to be adaptable. There was not always a supportive community around her. She understands the need first hand.
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“To be one who gives to others, a person must first have a heart. Compassion and a sense of community are learned,” Sharon shares. She learned from her late father. “He was a kind and giving man. He worked very hard. He sacrificed a lot for his family. One event stands out strong in my memory. The family had gone grocery shopping. Sacks of food were in the back of the car. Then we went to buy eggs from ‘the chicken lady.’ On the way home at last, Dad saw someone he knew from work. He waved, stopped, got out and chatted with the man. The next thing I knew, Dad was taking all the grocery sacks out of our car and putting them in the other man’s car. I said, ‘What are you doing with our food?’ All he said was, ‘I’ll explain later.’ When he got back in the car, he said, ‘My friend has several children and they have no money. We can miss our lunch today and feed them.’ That event made a great impression on me. That’s what I mean when I say compassion is learned by example.”

G.A.P. is all about compassion. And changing lives. One story will always be remembered.

“There was one gal back in 2004 when I was a caseworker. She sat down and said, ‘’I need assistance. But I promise it will be just be this once.’ Fortunately, we were able to help her. I didn’t see her again. Toward the end of 2007 I was at a downtown business for a meeting. The receptionist looked familiar to me. She said, ‘What company are you with?’ I told her. She said, ‘Do you remember me? My name is Patrice.’ I do remember you, I said. You told me you would only need assistance one time. Well, because of the help we gave her, she was able to go back to college, secure a home, get a good job. Her daughter was in college when we met again.”

This kind of help cannot be done by a few people. “Our staff of volunteers and board members log countless hours. This organization could not function without them. G.A.P. doesn’t pay out for their efforts, but they pay in. Each volunteer is a jewel. We could actually use some help in that area.” Also, Pets Helping People and Beat the Heat are two of many drives by local businesses and the city that help throughout the year.

This time of year giving is lean. “The food pantry takes a hit between now and Christmas. Aside from monetary donations to keep the place running, we need food,” Sharon confides. How many people are served? “In 2009, 1,950 people were aided. These are unduplicated figures. In other words, we assisted a large percentage of them many times.”

G.A.P. reaches out and helps. “However,” Sharon emphasizes, “we could not do the job if it were not for Grandview, a caring community. Residents rally for each other in many areas, not just G.A.P. If there’s a fire, or a very sick teacher, the people are there. Well, look at Ebeneezer (the donkey). That’s what I mean. When a need is presented there is an outpouring of generosity. “

G.A.P. is a United Way Agency. It is sustained from United Way grants and local contributions from businesses, churches and individuals.

If you’re looking for another way to stand in the gap for your community, consider helping with time, money or food at Grandview Assistance Program, 1121 Main Street, by appointment 9 am to noon and 1 to 3 pm., Monday through Friday.