United Way of Franklin County encourages “Hands Off” service projects

Brookville, IN — United Way of Franklin County’s (UWFC) Annual Day of Caring is going to look a little different this year, like most events, because of the COVID-19 virus. Instead of a large pool of volunteers teaming up to tackle leaf raking, window washing, fall clean up, etc. for the elderly and shut-ins or helping at local nonprofit agencies, UWFC is encouraging hands-off service projects on a smaller scale.

The Day of Caring kicks off on Saturday, November 7th with the UWFC student board raking leaves at some of the homes that have been done in the past. The student group is much smaller, and the list of homes had decreased a bit this year.

In addition, with the help of St. Michaels 6 and 7th-grade art students and First Financial Bank employees, you will see positive messaging signs displayed throughout the community along with encouraging messages in sidewalk chalk at the town park.

Along with the positive messaging projects, UWFC has a few other service projects in mind. Individuals or groups can do a collection drive for three local organizations:

Red Life Food Bank
• Peanut butter
• Tuna or other canned meat
• Jelly
• Macaroni and cheese
• Canned Vegetables

Franklin County Christian Outreach Paper Goods Pantry
• Paper towels, toilet paper or tissues
• Large trash bags
• Laundry Detergent (25 load size)
• All-purpose cleaner (spray or wipes)
• Bar Soap (i.e. Dove or Ivory)
• Dish Soap (no dishwasher liquid)
• Shampoo (prefers 2 in 1)
• Hand Soap

New Mercies
• Green beans, corn, mixed vegetables
• Applesauce, fruit cocktail
• Canned meats like chicken and tuna
• Spaghetti sauce

Please contact the United Way office to arrange the delivery of the collected items. Anyone planning on completing a service project can pick up a t-shirt at the United Way office during the 1st week of November on Monday and Thursday from 9-3 or Tuesday and Wednesday from 9-5. To make other arrangements, please call the office at 765-647-2789. There are a limited number of t-shirts available. Participants are encouraged to take pictures and use #DAYOFCARINGFC on social media sites.