Northwest Arkansas is blessed with a large number of nonprofit agencies that, together, work to meet just about every need. These organizations are supported by the generosity of the community.
In the coming weeks -- and in keeping with a holiday tradition -- the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette will share "wish lists" of local charitable agencies.
Northwest Arkansas is a great community in many ways. One of them is that because of the number of well-run, well-targeted nonprofits, the regions' residents do a phenomenal job of "taking care of our own."
Service Dogs of Distinction
What: Service Dogs of Distinction provide service dogs for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, free of charge. The program differs from others in that it trains a dog in basic obedience, then places it with a veteran who finishes the training program with the dog. This approach allows a placement with a veteran within 60 to 90 days instead of a two-year wait.
Upcoming fundraiser: Pictures with Santa, Sunday, Bark n Paws Pet Wash and Market, Fayetteville
Where: 224 N. East St., Fayetteville
Website: servicedogsofdistinction.org
Contact: (918) 774-4828, marsha@servicedogsofdistinction
Wish list: Earthborn Dog Food -- Coastal Catch; EZDog vests, size large; Remington braided slip leashes; large stainless steel dog bowls; durable dog toys; large and extra-large dog crates; Bravecta flea and tick treatment for large dogs; laptop for mobile presentations; large dog beds; and large dog collars.
H20 (Help to Others) Food Pantry
What: H20 works to lead and engage the Benton County community in the fight against hunger.
Upcoming fundraiser: Christmas food drive. Nonperishable food items can be dropped off at the pantry 10 a.m to noon every Saturday.
Where: 424 Main St., Centerton
Website: [email protected]
Contact: (479) 366-2168
Wish list: Canned vegetables, fruits, soup; canned tuna and meats; peanut butter; jelly; rice and pasta; ramen noodles; and macaroni and cheese.
Cooperative Emergency Outreach
What: Cooperative Emergency Outreach provides food and limited financial assistance to Washington County residents experiencing hardship due to unexpected emergencies, such as illness, job loss, etc.
Where: 1649 Huntsville Road, Fayetteville
Website: ceofayetteville.org
Contact: (479) 444-7500, [email protected]
Wish list: Pet food for dogs and cats; nonperishable food, especially canned meat, fruits and cereal; and cash. CEO gives limited cash assistance for utility bills, rent, gas, clothing and prescriptions.
Meals On Wheels of Benton County
What: Meals on Wheels ministers to the physical and spiritual needs of individuals in the community by providing nutritionally sound meals to those who, because of age, physical disability or convalescence, are unable to prepare meals for themselves.
Where: 2004 S. 13th St., Rogers
Website: mow-bentonco.org
Contact: (479) 636-1814, [email protected].
Wish list: Sugar-free desserts, such as jello pudding, frosting, cake and brownie mixes; regular and sugar-free fruit pie fillings; an industrial can opener; and a Kitchen-Aid mixer.
Altrusa International of Fayetteville
What: The organization values diversity, contributes to the good of the community, responds to changes in the needs of the community, is environmentally minded and encourages members to reach their potential in service and community leadership. Their core values include service, integrity, teamwork and compassion.
Where: P.O. Box 251, Fayetteville
Website: altrusafayetteville.org
Contact: (479) 790-0845, [email protected]
Wish list: New books for children or a donation that would allow us to purchase books; duffle bags for families that left home with nothing but a garbage bag; T-shirts, underwear, gloves and socks; lightweight snack and meal items for children to have food over the weekend or holidays; and volunteers.
NAN Our Town on 12/07/2017