Shade Tree shelter seeks bus tokens, other items

Andy Holtmann

Friday, May 30, 1997 | 11:44 a.m.

Lack of bus tokens has prompted the Shade Tree Women's Shelter to seek help from the community. The tokens, which are used by the shelter to transport women and children to and from jobs and appointments, are one of many items that the shelter desperately needs.

According to donations coordinator Debbie DeSouza, the facility at 1560 N. Main St. has been at or near capacity since its opening in December 1990.

"We're allowed to sleep 86 people," said DeSouza. "Sometimes, though, we have as many as 120."

The shelter has a general wish list of what it needs the most at certain times. Almost always on the list are such items as powdered laundry soap, trash bags and food.

In the meantime, the shelter is making do with what it has. Women and children who need bus tokens are being sent to other agencies that the shelter believes might help out.

"The people of the community have been very generous," said DeSouza. "Most of our donations come from people who pick up something extra at the store or give what they can to the shelter."

Shade Tree primarily houses women and children, but DeSouza said that its doors are always open. It is able to stay open due to support from federal grants, fund-raisers and the community at large.

Anyone wishing to help should drop off their donations at the shelter or call DeSouza at 385-0072.