Dear Friends and Visitors, It's my pleasure to welcome you to Charitable Union. I invite you to explore this website to learn about the many ways we are responding to the growing need in our community. Demand for our services has soared more than 77% since 2004, a stark reflection of Michigan’s economic environment. Charitable Union is meeting this demand in the most frugal and efficient way possible. Here are some key facts and figures to consider: ► One out of every four children in Calhoun County live in poverty. They need, and deserve, our compassion. ► In the last 10 years, poverty in our area surged from 10.9% in 2000 to 17.3% in 2010. ► At least 21,969 people in Calhoun County are living in real poverty today. ► The average per capita income for Charitable Union clients is just $6,500 per year

For all of these reasons, our community needs Charitable Union more than every before. Last year alone, we distributed more than 420,000 items, ranging from diapers and baby clothes to work shoes, back-to-school items and even used wedding dresses for those who can't afford them.

If you've never visited Charitable Union, I invite you now to stop by our facility for a friendly tour. We're located at 85 Calhoun St. in the heart of Battle Creek. (Map) You'll quickly see how many low-income families are turning to us for help in these difficult times.

More importantly, I'm asking you to get involved in our mission. Donate clothing or household items. Volunteer your time and expertise. Make a much-needed financial gift. Whatever you can do will be greatly appreciated by all of us.

On behalf of the 11,000 people who come to us for help every year, thank you for caring!

Sincerely,

Patti Staib, Executive Director
Charitable Union