West Central meets needs
Some think West Central Community Action is a secret too well kept. Family Development Specialist Heather Dollen wants others to know of West Central’s programs that can stretch dollars in this tighter economic situation. Its federal and state funded programs are offered to qualifying residents of 10 counties in southwest Iowa.
West Central is located at 1411 North Second Street in Red Oak. It is open Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
From Oct. 1 through May 29, heat assistance is provided. The cut-off date was extended because of the recent area lay-offs. Emergency repairs or replacement of heating systems, blankets, heaters, improving energy efficiency or even relocating to a warmer residence can be discussed with Dollen.
Utility assistance is possible for those who qualify.
Women, infants and children (WIC) has its office at West Central, but clinics are held at 1109 Highland Avenue. The supplemental food program is for pregnant women and children from 0 to age 5. Dollen can help goal-setters willing to take steps to overcome financial roadblocks.
West Central also houses a locally stocked emergency food pantry open 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. Vouchers may be obtained through the Department of Humans Services at 1109 North Highland, Red Oak.
Additionally, dollars can be saved by selecting clothing or home necessities at the center. It does not store used furniture because of limited space. There is no charge for donated items, but individuals can take items from that room only twice a month.
“It’s a busy place,” Dollen said, “but a lot of people donate. We try to switch out clothes seasonally like other clothing places do.”
The center receives good used clothing or other household items 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Seniors over 55 years of age needing part-time on-the-job training can discuss options available with Dollen, too. West Central sometimes does job placements with public or non-profit community organization to permit seniors to work for 20 hours a week.
“I’d like to thank the community for its support for the clothing room and food pantry. Without them we would not have anything to give back to the community,” Dollen said.
“There are no (food or clothing) restrictions, especially right now, with things as bad as they are,” said Dollen who has worked at the center for five years. “We’d encourage people to take advantage of what we have to offer them.” She suggests calling to discuss services because some programs have financial guidelines that must be used.
Dollen pointed out that Headstart registrations are being taken at the office or at the Headstart schools. In Red Oak, the number to call is 712-623-3232 or in Villisca, 712-826-2299. Red Oak’s Headstart students meet at 1109 Highland year around. Villisca Headstart meets at Enarson Elemen-tary and coincides with the elementary school calendar.