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Readers respond to need at DuBois
by Elizabeth Michalka, Wake Weekly Staff Writer
The sounds of desperation have subsided at the DuBois Center.
Last week The Wake Weekly reported that the center's employees were struggling to keep the food pantry's shelves full to provide for the increased needs in the community. Beginning Thursday, when the newspaper came out, the DuBois Center was nearly overcome by an outpouring of donations, said executive director Bettie Murchison. "The phones were ringing off the hook!" Murchison exclaimed. "This is a very generous community. Once people understood what the needs are, they were willing to roll up their sleeves and help." Even Murchison's staff worked overtime instead of enjoying a holiday break, she said. More than $3,300 was donated by businesses, churches and individuals. Murchison said she couldn't estimate how much food was brought in because the center has not yet compiled a complete list of contributions. But enough came in to feed more than 60 families on Friday, said Tina Horton, director of outreach programs at DuBois, which includes the food pantry. "It was a miracle," she said. Last week, Horton said the center was receiving more emergency calls from people without food than they did last year, and she was concerned that the center would not have enough food to go around. But that's all changed. Horton said they now have enough to provide full, healthy meals to families in need. Murchison hopes the monetary and food donations will be enough to keep the pantry running for at least two months. "The fear is that the support will end when the holiday spirit ends," Murchison said. "There are needs all year-round." But she received some comfort from donors who said they were interested in providing continued support for the DuBois Center. She was also encouraged by donors because they were so helpful and cheerful. Many even brought their children. "The spirit of philanthropy is a seed that's planted early in life," Murchison said, hoping that the children left the center with a greater sense of community. Murchison said that many told her they were glad to be able to help fulfill local needs. Some good Samaritans called the center before they came, and asked what the center most needed. Murchsion said that was a huge help because the needs change almost daily. The center asked people to bring in turkeys, hams and fresh produce for Christmas dinners. The center was also collecting new and used toys to give to children for Christmas. Murchison said that once the pantry was filled, they began asking people to bring in toys for specific age groups. She estimates that the center distributed at least 1,000 toys. Murchison said she was especially appreciative of the donations of toys and food because she knew how crowded and hectic stores were over the Christmas weekend. "Each donor's time may have been small, but it made a big impact," Murchison explained. "It meant so much to so many families, and I can't thank everyone enough for their contributions." Editor's note: To volunteer at or donate to the DuBois Center, call 554-2030.
Last Updated On: December 29, 2005
Copyright 2005 The Wake Weekly