For 45 years, Hospice of the Foothills has been a beacon of compassion and care, providing invaluable support to countless families during their most challenging times. Many of us in the community, myself included, have witnessed firsthand the profound impact this organization has on the end-of-life journey, offering solace, dignity, and peace when it is needed most.
Hospice of the Foothills operates two thrift stores, one in Grass Valley and another in Penn Valley, which are not just retail store but lifelines for our community. These stores offer low-cost and often no-cost items to those in need, and their reach extends beyond their walls through partnerships with other local nonprofits such as Hospitality House, Women of Worth, and Community Beyond Violence. They provide essential goods like clothing and furniture, often free of charge, to those who need them most. The stores are a place where over 100 people volunteer their time, learn on-the-job training, and/or participate in transitional return to work programs.
However, the ability of these stores to serve the community is now in need of a new delivery box truck, critical for picking up and delivering donations, is nearing the end of its useful life. This truck has been a workhorse for more than 10 years ensuring that donations can be collected and that purchased items, especially heavy furniture, can be delivered to customers who cannot transport them themselves. Replacing this truck is essential to maintaining the operations, financially supporting hospice, palliative, education and bereavement services of Hospice of the Foothills.
Trucks like these cost a lot of money – between $50,000 and $100,000 for a used truck with a lift on the back. The Gift & Thrift stores have been fundraising and have had some generous support but they need more help to reach their goal.
Antonio, my husband and I are so grateful for the services Hospice of the Foothills has provided to our own family and friends, we are pledging $20,000 toward this new delivery vehicle. But we ask you, our supportive community, to help match our donation with whatever amount is comfortable for you to show your support. Your donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference. Together we can reach and surpass their fundraising goal of $50,000!
To make a donation, please call (530) 265-6500 or go into the Hospice Gift & Thrift stores, or go online www.hospiceofthefoothills.org or stop by the Thriftstores to make a donation. Please tell them you are taking advantage of my matching donation program and your donation will be doubled!
Mary Wollesen