Philomath Community Services Spring 2024 News

As we bid farewell to the chill of winter, life is springing up all around Philomath. We see cherry blossoms, daffodils, tulips, and daises. The birds are singing, and the rain drops continue to sprinkle down. PCS is springing into action as well. Here is the latest:

Lupe’s Garden Grand Opening

Lupe’s Community Garden is opening Tuesday, April 2, 2024! This season, hours will be:

Please double check our website for hour updates. And mark your calendar for these upcoming free events! We look forward to seeing you in our own little community garden.

And It’s Almost Gleaning Season!

Gleaning Season will be upon us soon, and the Philomath Community Gleaners are available for field and backyard gleans. Please call Patty to schedule a time for our Gleaners to pick up available produce. Gleaners are trained to be respectful to your property, and we will issue a receipt for produce gleaned.

Same PCS, New Mission

As of March 21, 2024, our Board of Directors voted to approve a revised version of our mission statement, which we believe succinctly reflects the objectives of our organization and the community whom we work to serve.

The Mission Statement of Philomath Community Services is:

We provide locally based programs to meet the basic needs
of the people of West Benton County and the surrounding region to sustain healthy, resilient individuals, families and communities.

A Fun Way to Try New Foods and Recipes

For the past year, the Philomath Food Bank and the Oregon State University (OSU) Extension Service have been sponsoring the Food Hero program. Each month, we choose one recipe that can be made with food from the Food Bank and Gleaners. On the last Saturday of each month, we have a demonstration with samples. Look for our display rack for recipes!

The Future Is Bright!

We had floodlights installed this past winter, surrounding our building. Isn’t it nice to see where you’re stepping? Here is a video press release on the lighting from our Executive Director.

Holiday Cheer Recap

Holiday Cheer had another record year! As we shared on social media earlier this past season, THANK YOU to all our generous sponsors.

Here is a video of Program Manager Jennifer reviewing this latest successful season.

Recognizing our Good Samaritans

Many of you know Sandy Heath, who earned a well-deserved a Volunteer Appreciation 2024 Samaritan Award.

Congratulations to Sandy! Sandy served as co-Program Manager for Lupe’s Community Garden and is now a Board Member. We are extremely fortunate to have her visionary service.

Strategic Planning

With input from our innovative programs and dedicated volunteers, the PCS Board of Directors recently held its 2024 Strategic Planning session to brainstorm and map out the future of our organization. Bright things are ahead!

Thanks to all who provided their insights to help fuel the discussions.

In this video, the President of our Board of Directors, David M. Low, shares two key takeaways from this recent Strategic Planning session.

Welcome, Jodi

We are delighted to welcome Jodi Russell to our Board. With a background working as a school teacher, Jodi brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to education and community service.

Her expertise will be invaluable as we continue to fulfill our mission. Jodi’s passion for making a positive impact aligns perfectly with our goals, and we look forward to her contributions.

Welcome aboard, Jodi!

A Successful March on Hunger

This past March, we launched a campaign to gather 1,000 cans of food in 10 days.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our neighbors, we made this happen!

We are grateful to all who contributed, helping us serve our neighbors in need.💚

Latest Hours

Please see the green-bordered flyer below with our latest hours as of the release date of this Spring 2024 Newsletter. However, as a reminder, please be sure to visit our website and navigate to our various program webpages for the most up-to-date hours.

June’s Kids Kloset Most-Wanted List

Last but not least, please see below for our present most-wanted list for JKK items. This list is always subject to change and is kept updated on the JKK webpage.

Size 3 – 10 Girls

Jeans
Short & long sleeve tops
Leggings
Pajamas size (6-10)
Socks (young kids, shoe size 4 and up) Diapers size (size 3, 4, 5)
Diapers, wipes (unscented)
Girl onesies (12, 18, 24 mo. Short sleeves)
Underwear (sizes 4, 5, 6, 8, 10)    

Size 3 -8 Boys

Jeans
Hooded sweatshirts
Socks (young kids, shoe size 4 to 12) Underwear (boxer briefs size 5, 8, 9, 10) Pajamas (size 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
Boy onesies (12, 18, 24 mo. Short sleeves)

Layette Items