New outreach hub in Independence helps nonprofits get supplies they need

INDEPENDENCE, MO — KSHB 41 reporter Claire Bradshaw covers eastern Jackson County, including Blue Springs and Grain Valley. Share your story idea with Claire.

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A new outreach hub in Independence is helping nonprofits and families get the supplies they need.

The U Matter Movement opened the Outreach Space earlier this summer. Located off 23rd Street in Independence, it serves as a central location for donations.

The U Matter Movement partners mainly with the Deron Cherry Foundation, which collects surplus items from local Target stores. Those items go directly to the hub's shelves, including shoes, food, personal hygiene products and baby items. Nonprofits then can contact the U Matter Movement through its website to pick up exactly what they need.

Organizers say the goal is to get resources directly into the hands of those surveying the streets and meeting people's needs.

Bobby Hines, co-founder of the U Matter Movement, said:

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"It takes a lot of footwork out of it, a lot of delivering and that sort of thing. So it's a convenience for a lot of people, and you know the people that come in and grab things."

Erin Quador, executive director of the Deron Cherry Foundation, said:

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"I think it's just about you know letting people know that there are resources around the community. I know tides are difficult right now, but we're here to help."

The hub currently helps about 10 nonprofits each week. Those who want to help can look for an Amazon wish list from the U Matter Movement whenever shelves get low.

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