Putting the Ozarks First: Crosslines continues to see increased demand

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Since moving into the Council of Churches of the Ozarks’ new headquarters on Division Street over a year ago, Crosslines has helped over 6,000 households.

But the number of families being helped is continuing to increase. Last year the non-profit served 20% more families than the year before. This year, they are projected to serve 41% more families.

But one area where people can make a big difference is volunteering at the food pantry.

“Especially in that afternoon shift, where we are re-stocking the pantry, we’re resetting and we’re sweeping and we’re cleaning and we’re dusting. We’re moving food around and getting everything ready for the next day. It takes a lot, ” said Crosslines Program Manager Nathan Mortensen.

Another program within the Council of Churches that is trying to raise funds this month is the Ambassadors for Children.

May is National Foster Care Awareness Month and the program hopes to raise $50,000 for its Without You initiative, to continue to support foster kids and parents.

“The kids are the biggest benefit and you get to spend time with them and you get to make a deep connection with the kids that are going through such a hard time in their life,” said Foster parent Chrissy Suarez.

Crosslines is one of three nonprofits for Putting the Ozarks First. Find out more about Crosslines and Putting the Ozarks First by visiting the website located here.

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