The Jackson County Clothing Center experienced various challenges in 2021, and some of them are continuing into the new year.

Cheryl Vierling, secretary of the center’s board of directors, said its current balance was depleted by more than $3,000 in the last half of 2021.

For the center to continue its free distribution of clothing, bedding, towels and personal hygiene items to children and adults, the board is looking for community partners to help meet the monthly financial responsibilities.

Rent and utilities cost $950, while insurance is $243, and trash pickup is $50.

Vierling said a gift of $1,250 would allow the center to meet these needs and use other donations for personal care items, socks, underwear and pajamas for clients.

As a clothing center partner, she said people would be invited to serve on the board, attend meetings and be an integral part of the future planning and organization.

In 2021, the center served 1,145 individuals and families, of which 293 were new, Vierling said. Clients of Clarity Care, Anchor House Family Assistance Center and Pantry and Orphan Grain Train and Schneck Medical Center patients also were served.

“As our outreach grows, so do our needs,” Vierling said in an open letter to local churches, organizations and businesses. “Thank you in advance for caring about those in your community who are not able to care for themselves.”

The clothing center has served the less fortunate of Jackson County since 1982 thanks to the generosity of residents, churches and businesses providing donations and monetary gifts.

This year, the center continues to operate in a new location at 622 W. Second St., Seymour, and be in need of more regular support, Vierling said.

“Our former space served us well for many years but in 2019 was sold by the owner, giving us a challenge to find a new space to continue serving our clients,” she said. “During the quarantines and shutdowns (due to the COVID-19 pandemic), our volunteers continued as best they could to meet one-on-one with those needing clothing and recently being open on a limited basis with fewer volunteers.”