Purpose

The Community Action Agency of Delaware County, Inc. established the Donations Warehouse as a resource for homeless families leaving shelters, fire victims and victims of domestic abuse who are in the process of reestablishing housing.

Description

The Community Action Agency of Delaware County (CAADC) established the Donations Warehouse as a resource for homeless families leaving shelters, fire victims and victims of domestic abuse who are in the process of re-establishing housing.  The Donations Warehouse serves as a centralized clearinghouse for donations of furniture and household goods that are then made available to homeless families and individuals.

Agencies referring clients to the Donations Warehouse serve on the Warehouse Advisory Board to ensure that the program is consumer and community-oriented.  A summary of policies and procedures provides information on how to make referrals and how the Warehouse may be used.  This includes information on client eligibility, forms required for referrals, fees, appointments and provisions for delivery.  More detailed information on eligibility is also made available to ensure appropriate referrals.

A Donations Warehouse Agency Referral Form includes a list of items that may be provided and the quantities allowed depending on the size of the family.  The Referral Form also includes information on eligibility criteria and payment arrangements.  A $15 Access Fee is charged to use the Warehouse and a $45 Delivery Fee is charged for persons unable to arrange to transport items themselves.  Approximately 10-12 pickups occur during a typical week and the value of items provided to families usually averages from $500-$1,000.

A 6,400 square foot facility is leased for less than half the market rate and staff includes a Warehouse Coordinator and two Warehouse Assistants.  Two vehicles are used for the Warehouse.  Antiques received as donations are sold to generate revenue for the Warehouse budget.  Funding is also secured through the HUD Continuum of Care Supportive Housing Program.  The overall annual budget is $161,000 for rent, maintenance, operational costs and three staff positions.

CAADC solicits donations through the use of flyers and media coverage.  Items are received from a variety of sources including hotels, universities (esp. when students return home for summer), individuals (inc. estates), and merchants.  Donors are added to CAADC’s mailing list as future prospects for additional contributions.

Outcomes

Through the end of 2009, more than 21,000 items were provided to over 1,800 families since the Donations Warehouse opened in December 1997.  More than twenty agencies have used the Warehouse as a resource for their clients.  CAADC produces a monthly report that reflects the level of assistance made available through the Warehouse.