Paul and Rebecca
Paul and Rebecca were worried they would become homeless; already they were going without much food. First Paul’s company downsized, leaving him out of work. Then Rebecca had an unexpected health crisis that left her in the hospital for a month. Paul was in serious trouble and didn’t know what to do. He turned to PROP, he needed to feed his kids. But what he found was so much more. The case management team helped him apply for housing assistance and ultimately helped Rebecca and him keep their home. Without the worry of being hungry or homeless, Rebecca focused on healing and Paul found a job.
Volunteer Spotlight – Kathie Carr
Meet Kathie Carr
We asked volunteer Kathie Carr questions about her volunteer experience. Kathie is the Summer Food for Kids Donation coordinator. You can read about Kathie below.
How did you First Get Involved with PROP?
After an early retirement, I was looking for a volunteer position. With a background in food service, I was most comfortable, and felt somewhat knowledgeable in the food arena. I was fortunate that at the time, there was a volunteer opening at PROP.
What has surprised you most about working at PROP?
I am still surprised that the need in our community is so great. EP and Chan are not cities that come to mind when you think that there are numerous people who need help with the basic necessities of living.
How is the summer different than the rest of the year for PROP?
With school out, the need is actually greater and yet the donations are much less. It is frustrating and difficult sometimes to be able to adequately fill an order for a family. On the plus side, with our great partners who have gardens, there is an abundance of fresh produce that our clients appreciate and look forward to.
What do you wish other people knew about PROP?
It would be nice if people remember that hunger is a 365-day problem, not just during the Holidays. There are ongoing needs too like personal care items, diapers and wipes and a simple treat like coffee that we can really never have enough of.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I am intimidated by both babies and technology. Afraid I will break something in either case.
What do you think will change about PROP over the next five years?
I think there will always be a need for help with food, housing and employment. I think the changes may come in the way they are perhaps provided. I see much of that happening just in the three years I have been here…technology has changed marketing, fundraising and donation approaches.
Give to the Max, Holiday Gift Giving, Housing, Other Ways of Giving
Give to the Max
Holiday Gift Giving
Housing – “Emergency Room”
Other Ways to Give (Stocks, ETc.)
School Supplies
BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLIES PROGRAM
Eden Prairie Schools (EPS) families experiencing financial hardship can again pick up needed school supplies for their students at each school during Back-to-School Open House Nights at the end of August. Families do NOT need to register in advance. Grace Church, Life Church, Wooddale Church, Immanuel Lutheran, the Foundation for Eden Prairie Schools, PROP, EPS Community Education’s Family Resources Program, Eden Prairie Community Foundation, and various other businesses work collaboratively on this program to ensure all students have what they need to be successful in the new school year. More details are available on the 2019 Back-to-School Supplies Program website. Drop boxes are located at PROP (14700 Martin Dr.) and The Education Center (8040 Mitchell Road) if you would like to help contribute supplies for families in need.
Employment Assistance
Employment Assistance
If you are looking for a job, wanting to find a better job or ready to explore a new career path and not sure where to begin with searching for a job opportunity that fits your needs, skills, and interests, our on-site career counselor is here to help. Schedule your one to one appointment today.