BELLOWS FALLS — Local businesses and individuals met a challenge from Chroma Technology to match its donation to the Greater Falls Warming Shelter, raising more than $7,000 to help fund a warm overnight space during the winter months.
“Chroma would like to thank the 20 businesses that donated to the Shelter from the Cold Challenge,” said Maggie Kelly, a Chroma employee and member of the GFWS board.
She said the drive was a good fit for Chroma, which she describes as an environmentally and socially responsible company that feels it should take responsibility for its neighbors.
Although Chroma was disappointed that the shelter did not receive a permit to operate this year, Kelly said, the funds will be used to support those without shelter in other ways, such as providing tents, blankets, warm clothing, and transportation to other shelters.
The GFWS is supporting Hundred Nights, Inc., in its efforts to open a shelter in the Rockingham area by cooperating on training, volunteers and supplies.
She said the alliance between the citizens of the Rockingham area, businesses, social organizations, and the faith community has been the epitome of the ideal community and has helped to take the burden off the town budget.
She also noted that the shelter poured $30,000 back into the local economy through rent, purchase of supplies, utilities, and salaries for two part-time employees.
Further donations can be mailed to the shelter's fiscal agent SEVCA at 91 Buck Dr., Westminster, VT 05158, with GFWS in the memo line.
Information is available on the Greater Falls Warming Shelter Facebook page or by e-mailing [email protected].