By Mark Ambrogi
AlphaGraphics of Carmel typically embarks on a major fundraising campaign each year.
This year the store has chosen to partner with Carmel United Methodist Food Pantry to collect personal care products.
“When they mentioned their food pantry was challenged by getting personal care items, it sounded like something we could help with,” AlphaGrapics owner/president Michael Kile said.
The Making it Happen campaign for essential basic items began July 10 and runs through Sept. 24. There is a collection can inside the store, 1051 3rd Ave. SW. The store hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
“We made a first drop of a half-dozen boxes of donated items, so that is something that we want to keep going,” Kile said. “If there are community centers or places where we can bring a collection barrel, we will do that. We’ve been distributing flyers here to all of our clients and doing a little item in our newsletter. We have a goal to drop off a hundred items every couple of weeks.”
The company has been involved with Pets Healing Vets and food drives in the past. It also conducted a breast cancer fundraising campaign because Kile’s wife, Rhonda, is a cancer survivor. Rhonda was named Most Valuable Volunteer by the Carmel Chamber of Commerce (now part of OneZone) in 2014.
“We just try to do something to help in the community,” Kile said.
The items include feminine hygiene products, shampoo and conditioner, hair care products, toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap and body wash, skin care, lotion and deodorant. These are items are not allowed to be purchased with food stamps.
“My wife was a social worker for many years, so she understands that all too well,” Kile said.
Anyone interested in placing a collection bin should contact [email protected].
