Charitable Spotlight: Community Lifeline
Community Lifeline (CL) of Mason County is a favorite philanthropic organization of our clients. CL provides shelter for single men and women in Mason County (the only such shelter), but it also serves hot meals 365 days a year to people of all ages, including families. To help stay clean, healthy, and in good spirits, showers are available with hygiene items (soap, shampoo, razors, deodorant) and clean, dry socks. Additionally, case management services are provided which include a pathway to housing, jobs, health services, and counseling when needed. Volunteers assist on-site with other services such as haircuts, flu shots, referrals, and laundry vouchers.
An interesting fact about CL: all staff members have been homeless in the past. This puts them in an excellent position to offer support, understanding, and encouragement to the folks who come to CL. This year, a new trend is the increase in elderly people who have found themselves homeless. With the decrease in affordable housing – even in Mason County – an elderly person who is displaced from their home is often unable to find a new place to live. This year, over 50% of CL’s shelter guests are over 65 years old.
During difficult times, CL remains open. When “Snowmageddon” closed everything in town, even Safeway and the library, CL was open for folks who needed warm shelter, coffee, and a sandwich. Now with COVID-19, CL is still open, albeit with careful infection control. Donations and financial gifts are much appreciated to help with Community Lifeline’s mission. A non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, CL takes seriously the challenge and privilege of caring for our neighbors. Donations can be made to Community Lifeline, PO Box 698, Shelton, WA 98584 or visit http://clshelton.com/donate.
