Charitable Union is where the journey out of poverty starts in Calhoun County, Michigan. Founded in 1887, we have a long history of service to the neediest families in our community. Every year, we serve more than 11,000 people by providing clothing, shoes, baby supplies, bedding and small household items at no cost.

Some people ask: "Why don’t you charge your clients for things like coats, shoes and bedding?”

The answer is simple: Many of them cannot afford even thrift store prices. In a recent survey, we determined that the average per capita income of our clients was less than $6,500 per year. It’s another reason why your gifts of financial support and clothing are so important today.

Meeting immediate needs is just the beginning of our work. We also help individuals and families achieve independence and self-sufficiency through a variety of specialized programs. Our ultimate goal is to help families prepare for independence and self-sufficiency so they don’t need us anymore. Here are some examples:

► Steel-toed work boots for a client re-entering the workforce after years of unemployment

► Medical scrubs for a low-income client starting a new career in nursing

► Kitchen essentials and blankets for a single mom after a fire destroyed her apartment

► Diapers and baby supplies for a young mother living in a local shelter

We invite you to find out more about who we serve and why it matters in our community today. You might be surprised by what you learn!

Charitable Union runs on a very tight budget with few paid staff. In fact, volunteers and donations are the lifeblood of our organization. Last year alone, volunteers performed more than 48,019 hours of service - helping us distribute more than 431,000 items to local families.

Got clothing? We always welcome your gifts of new or lightly used clothing, baby supplies and household items. To learn how, please click here now.

You can help right now! We depend on compassionate people like you to keep our mission going. Please consider supporting Charitable Union with a much-needed, tax-deductible financial gift today. To make a donation with a major credit card, please use the button below. (Other options)