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120 Mountain Avenue, Suite 212, Bloomfield, CT 06002 ▪
Phone: 860.243.1806 ▪ FAX: 860.243.0100 |
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Critical Goods Update
Unfortunately, the bedbug problem has not only restricted the number of beds that we can accept from those who want to donate furniture, but at the same time, it increased the need for beds since people living in affected buildings have to throw out their beds when they become infested. For six years the Critical Goods Program had not received any requests for beds that cited bedbug infestation as the reason for the request. Since the Fall of 2006, however, the program has received a number of requests to replace beds that have become infested, and these requests appear to be increasing in frequency. Recently, the Critical Goods Program received a request for beds from an urban social worker for a mother with six children living in very cramped circumstances. Their beds were infested with bedbugs and one of the children had developed infections from the bites. Bedbugs are not only a nuisance, but can constitute a serious health risk. Due to the generosity of Bob’s and Bethany Covenant Church we had gift cards and money on hand to purchase two sets of bunk beds and a twin bed for the family. They also received a nice dining table with six chairs, a sofa, and several dressers that Bob’s had donated. Since we had funds on hand to purchase beds, the family was able to throw out the old beds, have the landlord bring in an exterminator that day, and receive the new beds the next day. Not all families are so fortunate. This case demonstrates how businesses and faith-based volunteering can make a tangible difference in the lives of those caught in circumstances not necessarily of their own making. As this problem grows, it will become increasingly important for more advocates for children to step forward to meet the need that this problem will engender. As coordinator of the Critical Goods Program, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the various organizations and foundations who have generously funded the program and provided money for beds over the past year: Bob’s Discount Furniture, Bethany Covenant Church, United Way of the Capital Area, William and Alice Mortenson Foundation, Ensworth Foundation, SBM Charitable Foundation, Swindells Charitable Foundation, and Schaller Auto World Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain. It has been a real pleasure distributing the goods made possible by their generosity, and witnessing the joy and gratitude of the children and families who benefit from their largesse. Covenant to Care for Children only collects the following items:
Covenant to Care for Children can no longer accept “drop-side” cribs as donations nor will we purchase drop-side cribs for the children and families we serve. |
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2005 - 2010 Covenant to Care for Children.
All Rights Reserved |
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