WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — The Wausau Salvation Army on Callon Street is one of several statewide that is accepting donations for refugees being housed at Fort McCoy near Tomah.
“We’re finding out that many of them have been arriving with just the clothes on their backs, so they need a lot of different supplies,” said Ann Chrudinsky, Development Director with the Salvation Army. “They are looking for summer clothes meaning shirts, T-shirts, pants, undergarments, and sandals. And of course children’s clothing as well.”
She adds that all clothing should be new, not used, and should have minimal “branding,” meaning no statements or sayings on them.
The group is also accepting donations of personal hygiene items, bottled water, reusable water bottles made with materials other than glass, and individually packaged snack items. Cash donations are also being accepted through Team Rubicon, who is leading the effort.
“Seventy percent of Team Rubicon’s volunteers are Veterans, many of whom served in Afghanistan. It’s a deeply personal mission for them,” she said.
Chrudinsky says since the Wausau Salvation Army location does not have a thrift store, all donated clothing will go to the refugees immediately. Those who wish to donate other items such as water or food will need to specify where they want it to go.
Earlier this week an unidentified refugee staying at Ft. McCoy told WAOW TV that many people were still stuck with the same clothes that they had when they left Afghanistan, and that food supplies were running short at mealtimes.
Donations are being accepted during business hours, which are Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4 PM. They will take after-hours donations by appointment as well at 715-845-4272.
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