Christine Ann Shelter is overwhelmed by community generosity following food shortage

OSHKOSH, WI – (WISS) – An Oshkosh nonprofit and shelter that helps survivors of domestic abuse recently needed the public’s help when their pantry was dangerously low on grocery items. Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services took to their Facebook page to ask for donations of essential items.

Eden Protheroe, the nonprofit’s marketing and education specialist says while the immediate need has been met, the shelter would like to avoid “the big ask” from the community in the future. 

“Our needs have been fulfilled, graciously and amazingly, and so timely,” said Protheroe. “But we’re looking for ways to be more consistent with that so that we don’t have to (say) ‘Oh my gosh! We need a big ask from the community.’”

Protheroe says part of the reason for the recent shortage of pantry and hygiene essentials was an increase in the number of residents at the shelter, especially children. Some months they are fairly low on clients, and then three families with children might come into the shelter. Supplies dwindle quickly in those situations. 

“We are all very, very aware, groceries are super expensive,” said Protheroe. “If you’re experiencing displacement and you can’t even go to your job, you can’t buy groceries. That’s why we offer them…Clients are here to feel safe and at home, and we are doing all that we can to give that to them. Groceries should not be one of their worries.”

The biggest donation needed for the shelter currently is shampoo and conditioner, especially for textured hair. 

“We want our clients to feel beautiful and have what they need to feel confident and feel good and take care of themselves, and that’s one of those items,” said Protheroe.

To keep a steady supply of donations and essential items coming into the shelter, Protheroe says she hopes that the community will create a habit for the organization.

“At the end of each month, maybe clean out your pantry. If we could become a part of a person’s regular clean-out, would be pretty nice,” said Protheroe.

Volunteers needed more than food donations!

More than donations, volunteers are encouraged to help the shelter. The volunteer opportunities at the Christine Ann Shelter are varied. They need help organizing the food pantry, cleaning the shelter and facility, shelter maintenance, and lawn care. Protheroe said they have a shelter manager, but that manager can always use help.

“It takes more than one person to make something amazing – and clean,” said Protheroe. 

Additionally, later this spring, the Christine Ann Shelter is moving to a new building. That opens up opportunities for volunteers to help with the clean-up, moving, painting the old building, painting, putting up pictures, and preparing to open the new building.

To donate, drop off items at the front door of the shelter at 206 Algoma Boulevard in Oshkosh. To volunteer, call the hotline at (920) 235-5998. 

The Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services hotline is available 24/7 for anyone needing services from the organization.