Making a Difference in Fort Payne, Alabama
by Angie Hood
Soaring costs in housing, rent, transportation, and food have left countless individuals struggling to support themselves and their families. The suggestion to simply find better employment oversimplifies the intricate web of challenges that many face. These hardships stem from a combination of factors, including financial strain, lack of affordable housing, mental health difficulties, and personal crises. Numerous organizations in the area work tirelessly to address these needs, and the Progressive Women’s Action Coalition is eager to add to these efforts. To do so, they will host a yard sale where every item will be completely free of charge. If you are interested in contributing, below is a list of suggested donations for the yard giveaway and other impactful programs in our community. These resources continue to make a difference every day in the lives of those in need.
Clothing Donations
Donations of new or gently used clothing are appreciated. Items in high demand include packs of new boxer shorts, underwear, socks, pajamas, hoodies, coats, and sweatpants. Lightly used garments of all sizes for men, women, and children are also welcome.
For those in need of clothing, the following local organizations provide assistance:
Broadway Baptist, Rainsville: Offers clothing on the 4th Tuesday of each month from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Contact: 256-638-4219.
Christian Care Center (CASA of DeKalb County): Located at 2000 Watkins Avenue North, Fort Payne. Provides up to 25 pieces of clothing per month. Open Monday through Thursday, 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM. Contact: 256-845-2546.
FPFMC Serving Our Savior Ministry (SOS): Situated at 206 Grand Avenue NW, Fort Payne. Open Wednesdays from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM or during emergencies. Contact: 256-845-1141.
Salvation Army: Located at 450 Gault Avenue North, Fort Payne. Offers low-cost or potentially free clothing for children. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, and Saturday, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM. Contact: 256-997-0858.
Upper Sand Mountain Parish: Found at 14474 Alabama 75, Sylvania. Open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Contact: 256-638-2126.
Toiletries
Essential toiletries can truly make a difference. New items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, menstrual pads, soap, shampoo, toilet paper, tampons, lotion, and razors are all valuable. Compact toiletry bags are also practical and beneficial.
Blankets and Bedding
Blankets, pillows, sleeping bags, bed rolls and tents also make a significant difference to those in need.
Other Useful Items
Consider contributing dog food for pets in need, box fans to provide relief during hot days, children’s toys to bring joy to young ones, backpacks and rolling luggage for those seeking practicality, and books to inspire and educate. Each donation is an opportunity to show care and compassion while uplifting those in the community.
Women’s Care
Specialized resources for women include:
Women’s Care Center: Located at 107 4th Street SW, Fort Payne. Provides pregnancy support, diapers, and formula. Open Monday from 9 am - 4 pm, and Tuesday through Thursday from 10 am - 2 pm. Contact: 256-845-0838.
Domestic Violence Support
Several organizations help individuals affected by domestic violence:
Cullman: Contact: 256-734-6100.
DeKalb County, Fort Payne: Contact: 256-979-1202.
Jackson County: Contact: 256-574-5826.
Kelly’s Rainbow: Contact: 256-891-0019.
Safe Place: Contact: 256-767-6210.
Second Chance: Contact: 256-236-7233.
Detox Services
For individuals seeking detox services, the following facilities are available:
Bullock County Hospital: Contact: 334-473-9067.
Cedar Lodge: Contact: 866-578-7471 or 256-582-4465 ext. 201.
Craigs Crisis Care Center, Birmingham: Contact: 205-263-1701.
Floyd Medical Centre/Piedmont: Contact: 256-927-5531.
Mountain Lakes Behavior: Contact: 256-582-4240.
New Outlook: Contact: 256-888-1234.
Non-Perishable Food
Non-perishable food items are essential for providing sustenance and comfort. The Progressive Women’s Action Coalition is not taking food donations for this event, but consider including the following in any food donations or emergency supplies to other organizations:
Canned vegetables and soups
Ramen noodles
Peanut butter and granola bars
Bottled water
Tuna packs
For a special touch, treats such as gummy snacks or pudding cups can bring joy to children during mealtimes.
Food Resources in Fort Payne
Fort Payne offers several food assistance options for community members in need. Below is a list of resources, their addresses, schedules, and contact information:
Bread of Life: Warm meals are served at 100 Alabama Avenue NW, next to City Hall. Operating hours: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 11:30 am – 1 pm
Salvation Army: Located at 450 Gault Avenue North, Fort Payne. Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 9 am – 4 pm; Saturday, 9 am – 11:30 am. Contact: 256-997-0858 referral from Food Stamp office needed.
Geraldine Bulldog Pantry: Food distribution occurs at 13011 AL Hwy 227, Geraldine. Schedule: Saturdays from 8 am – 9 am. Contact: 256-677-9665
Many local churches and organizations in Fort Payne also provide food help. For specific distribution and schedules, contact nearby churches directly. Additionally, small food pantries can be found throughout the community, such as the one located in the parking lot of the First Presbyterian Church at 300 Grand Ave NW, Fort Payne.
Healthcare Services
Residents in need of healthcare can contact these services for more information:
Marked For Life Medical Center: Offering services every 1st and 3rd Thursday at 917 Godfrey Avenue SE, Fort Payne. Contact: 888-789-4673.
Humana: Family healthcare, pediatric, and dental services available through James Cowan. Contact: 256-701-0140.
DeKalb County Health Department: Located at 2401 Calvin Drive SW, Fort Payne. Provides breast and cervical screenings, health insurance support, WIC, and family planning. Open Monday through Friday, 8 am - 5 pm. Contact: 256-845-1931.
Marked for Life Ministries
Marked For Life offers a variety of services to support individuals in need, including monthly haircuts, clothing, food assistance, and help with housing applications, state ID, and birth certificates. They also provide referrals for mental health and addiction treatment, as well as transportation support. Additionally, their Center Store features items that can purchased using points earned through program participation. For a comprehensive list of services available at Marked for Life and within the surrounding communities, visit their website https://www.mflm.org/hopecenter.
Conclusion
Supporting those in need starts with empathy and collaboration. Whether it is sharing items you no longer use or making donations, small acts can lead to significant impacts. Volunteering your time or contributing financially to the resources mentioned above can profoundly transform lives. Together, we can cultivate a community where everyone can thrive, regardless of their circumstances. Keep an eye out for the announcement of our upcoming yard giveaway event. If you would like to donate items for the giveaway, feel free to reach us at Actionmattersdekalbal@gmail.com.