KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The number of calls from people looking for help continues to climb at the Community Assistance Council in Kansas City, Missouri.
The group is the only social services agency based in the south side of the city. It provides food, clothing, rent and utility assistance to needy families - all things people impacted by the coronavirus pandemic are experiencing need for.
“We’re already noticing an uptick of people coming in and walking in for help. We expect it to be greater because people are just now beginning to feel the brunt of these layoffs and reduced hours,” explained John Sharp, president of the council’s board.
The group is looking at ways to keep its shelves stocked so it can remain open.
The Small Business Administration has made loans available to nonprofits around Kansas City. Sharp said the charity is looking at other relief options before applying for a loan.
Sharp worries when utility companies end the suspension of cut-offs, people will struggle to pay their bills.
The group’s executive director said the situation highlights how important services like Community Assistance Council are.
“It’s more important now. We knew immediately we had to keep functioning. What was that going to look like, was the only question. It’s not if, it’s how,” executive director Rachel Casey explained.
For information on how you can make a donation, visit the nonprofit's website.
