“Make it Count” program
generates nearly $800 for homeless shelter
BID program raises awareness, adds up nickels and dimes to discourage panhandling
Durango, CO – The Durango Business Improvement District (BID) has presented the Durango Community Shelter with $784, generated from the “Make it Count” program. “Make it Count” was launched this summer to encourage locals and visitors to give their pocket change to local charities and not the transient panhandlers.
“Durango cares, but we want to make that generosity count,” said Tim Walsworth, BID executive director. “Our Community Shelter, managed by the Volunteers of America, is a very well run operation and works diligently to help individuals, families and Veterans get back on their feet. We’re happy this community-wide effort could contribute.”
The BID’s program to discourage transient panhandling in Durango through “Make it Count” was launched on Memorial Day weekend, and the shelter donation reflects funds deposited over a four-month period in 35 small donation boxes scattered throughout Downtown.
“The educational value was as important as the monetary donation,” said Walsworth. “We feel we reached 1,600 to 2,000 people who now understand the importance of supporting our local organizations that help our truly vulnerable citizens, and not giving to the transients who have chosen panhandling as their lifestyle.”
According to Rachel Bauske, division director for the shelter, the $784 donated through the “Make it Count” boxes could, for example:
- Support a month of utilities for the Durango Community Shelter, giving guests a warm place to sleep, showers, and access to laundry facilities as they work to maintain employment, find stable housing and rebuild their lives.
- Provide 18 days of safe, warm housing at the Durango Community Shelter for a homeless child with no other place to stay during the cold winter months.
- Provide eight chronically homeless Veterans with basic home essentials when they move into stable, long-term housing for the first time.
“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had community members approach me and express gratitude for the ‘Make it Count’ boxes; giving people the opportunity to give their money where it will make a huge impact in helping those in need,” said Bauske. “There are many local agencies, including the Durango Community Shelter and the Manna Soup Kitchen, that offer the most vulnerable families and individuals the services that provide a hand up, not a hand out. Thanks to all of you who continue to help us to make lasting change in the lives of so many.”
The “Make it Count” boxes will remain in Downtown locations throughout the year, and the BID will continue its educational effort, encouraging all to give to local charities, not to transient panhandlers.
“We have more boxes available,” said Walsworth, inviting businesses to contact him. “We’d love to further the reach and the education. We now know we can make a difference.”
For additional information about the “Make it Count” program visit www.DowntownDurango.org, or to host a donation box and/or post information, contact Walsworth at [email protected] or970.375.5068.
