Who stands in the gap 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.  They function as 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 for support first hand.

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“Compassion and a sense of community are learned,” Sharon shares. With a smile she recalls learning compassion from her late father, “He was a kind and giving man. He worked very hard. He sacrificed a lot for his family.”

Fast forward again to 2010 when Jonathan Frieden, President & CEO of U.S. Toy Company, joined as Chairman of the Board.  Like Sharon, Jonathan and new board members have a heart to give back to the community. Leadership changes in non-profits are a healthy way to surface fresh ideas.

The emphasis of the new board is to build both funds and awareness. As Jonathan notes solemnly, “There will always be a need in the community for direct emergency assistance.”

From the new leadership has arisen Friends of G.A.P., a community communication system to keep track of people who fall through the cracks of government programs.  Other new communication initiatives are in the works, along with an updated website to help generate more community awareness and participation. Jonathan continues, “G.A.P. is one of the few community-based programs that serves this community in particular. It’s very important to expand the reach.”

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 time of year giving is lean. “Aside from monetary donations to keep the place running, we need food to keep the pantry stocked,” 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 our volunteers, staff, board members and the caring community of Grandview.  Residents of this town rally for each other in many areas, not just G.A.P. 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 giving your heart through 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.