Operation Share will be taking to the streets of Mt. Carmel this Saturday, November 14th, to raise money for Wabash County families in need.
Melissa Smith, a representative of Operation Share, was a guest on Tuesday's WSJD Morning Show and discussed the upcoming fundraiser and the growing demand for assistance throughout the county.
Smith says local pastors and volunteers will be stationed at Mt. Carmel intersections Saturday, wearing safety vests and collecting donations from motorists.
Donations of cash or coins will be accepted, and those who don't have cash available will be given information about making contributions electronically through Venmo.
Smith emphasized that every dollar donated to Operation Share stays right here in Wabash County.
The program, which operates through the Wabash County Ministerial Association, has been helping local families for approximately 46 years.
While many residents associate Operation Share with Thanksgiving meals and Christmas gifts, Smith says the organization provides assistance throughout the entire year.
That includes helping families facing unexpected emergencies, housing needs, and difficulties paying essential bills.
Smith says requests for assistance have increased significantly in recent months, and organizers anticipate even greater needs in the coming year.
She noted that last year's holiday assistance signups filled quickly, with approximately 275 to 300 gift cards available during each of the Thanksgiving and Christmas distributions.
Smith also stressed that food insecurity remains a serious concern in rural communities such as Wabash County, where limited transportation and access to services can make difficult situations even worse.
In addition to Saturday's street corner fundraiser, Operation Share is preparing for its annual Christmas bell-ringing campaign.
Volunteers are needed at three Mt. Carmel locations: Buy Low, Marathon Fast Break, and CountryMark at Third and Walnut.
Bell-ringing shifts are available in one-hour increments between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., with opportunities throughout the holiday season.
Individuals, families, churches, and community organizations can sign up online at wabashoperationshare.com.
Smith says the bell-ringing campaign provides significant funding for Christmas gifts for children from families in need.
She encourages residents who are able to contribute to Saturday's fundraiser or volunteer during the holiday season.
Again, Operation Share volunteers will be collecting donations at intersections throughout Mt. Carmel this Saturday, with all proceeds remaining in Wabash County to assist local families.