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Bending the Arc references a quote by Rev. Dr. King who said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” This digital newsletter from the CSA Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation office showcases the work of changemakers, opportunities to learn, and opportunities for you to help “bend the arc” toward justice. Full contents of the newsletter are published on this page. 
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New Opportunity Center Offers a Lifeline to FDL’s Most Vulnerable

January 16, 2025
By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

ADVOCAP has recently launched The Opportunity Center, a vital resource for low-income individuals in Fond du Lac. Open since mid-November, the Center has already assisted over 100 people, seeing around 30 people per day on average. It addresses immediate needs while fostering long-term pathways out of poverty, empowering individuals to achieve stability and independence.

The Opportunity Center provides comprehensive support services tailored to help individuals overcome barriers. These include:

  • Basic Needs: Connections to FoodShare, medical insurance, and phone and email registration.
  • Shelter Assistance: Support in finding temporary shelter for those at risk of legal issues when sleeping in public spaces.
  • Employment: Resume building, job search, interview prep, and skill development for economic stability.
  • Mental Health: Access to services addressing mental health, trauma, and substance use disorder.
OPEN HOUSE

January 28
4-6 p.m. 
Advocap Opportunity Center (19 W 1st St, Fond du Lac, WI 54935)

How You Can Help?

The Center’s work relies on private donors, but growing demand necessitates additional community support. Ways to contribute include:

  1. Donate Items: Organize drives or drop off items from ADVOCAP’s specific needs list.
  2. Financial Contributions: Enable personalized assistance with monetary gifts or gift cards (Amazon, Walmart).
  3. Volunteer: Support operations at the Center, from restocking items to front desk registration.
  4. Donate Meals: Help provide breakfast and lunch for individuals in the Center. The CSA JPIC Office has created this spreadsheet for volunteers to sign up for at least once weekly lunch items. Several CSA Associates have already signed up and/or brought in lunch items.
  5. Spread Awareness: Share ADVOCAP’s mission widely with your connections
  6. Attend the Open House: Join on January 28 from 4:00–6:00 PM to meet staff, tour the Center, and learn more about ADVOCAP’s impact.

Earlier this month, CSA Associate Carol Rawlins and her great niece brought a food collection to ADVOCAP. Carol was able to connect with Brenda Hull there, who told her where the loading dock was to make an easy transfer of items. Once there, Brenda offered to show Carol the three rooms that were recently made available for the Opportunity Center guests. Carol said, “The rooms are comfortable and spacious to move around or rest, watch TV, or snack when they are available. Since they don't have funding for food Brenda was very grateful that CSA is reaching out to them. It is great to be able to help some in need knowing there is a place they can go to feel safe and supported.”

For more information on how to support the Opportunity Center, please reach out to Brenda Hull at ADVOCAP: Brenda.hull@advocap.org or 920-957-0295 (cell). Together, we can work to eliminate barriers and empower individuals to achieve stability and independence, allowing them to pursue the dignified life they deserve.


 

Tags: exemplar
Posted in Poor & Vulnerable