Good Neighbors published Dec. 29, 2021

Donna Middleton, West Central Tribune, Willmar, Minn.
·2 min read

Dec. 30—West Central Connection

WILLMAR — The West Central Connection Barbershop Chorus sponsored a free Christmas concert Dec. 19 at Assembly of God Church in Willmar and raised $1,385 for Toys for Tots. Also performing along with the West Central Connection Chorus were the Affinity Quartet, Peggy Soucek, the Broberg Family and the Assembly of God worship ensemble.

Willmar Area Community Foundation

WILLMAR — The Willmar Area Community Foundation has opened its annual grant round to fund programs that focus on three different areas this year: addressing the opportunity gap for youth, increasing community connections and welcoming diverse populations, and supporting productive aging.

Eligible organizations must be a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, school or government entity which serves residents of Kandiyohi County. For additional information and the online application, visit www.communitygiving.org/grants and select "WACF General Grants." The deadline is Jan. 15.

This past year, the Willmar Area Community Foundation invested $128,000 through the Community Impact Grant Round. This included the investment to the MNYou Junior Master Gardener Program in providing children with culturally relevant learning experiences; supporting Project Turnabout in the construction of their outpatient and women's center in Willmar; and Ridgewater College's pilot multilingual community journalism program.

Homeless crisis line

WILLMAR — United Community Action Partnership has a 24/7 crisis line for people experiencing homelessness. The crisis line will operate outside of regular business hours and will be solely dedicated to helping people find emergency shelter.

Anyone in need of shelter should first call their local UCAP office during regular hours. Outside of business hours, those in need should call the crisis line. Those in Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker, Renville, and Redwood Counties should dial 320-587-5244, extension 12. Screening questions will be asked to determine eligibility and coordinate appropriate shelter and other services as needed.

Habitat for Humanity

WILLMAR — Habitat for Humanity of West Central Minnesota ReStore accepts donations of building materials, large appliances, furniture and more. All donations must be approved by staff before acceptance. Donations can be brought to 2424 First Street South in Willmar between 11 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Saturday. For more information, contact 320-235-9000 or www.habitatwcm.org.