Finding Solutions: Columbia County foundation sees ‘a huge need for children’
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - The Columbia County Foundation for Children is a local non-profit organization that has been around for more than 30 years.
They provide financial support, food, clothing and activities for kids in the area.
The group is finding solutions in how they can continue helping one child at a time.
The foundation says it’s filling in the gaps for these kids who may get left behind in school.
President Dorothy Brandon says they’re able to provide this support thanks to donations and their Helping Hands thrift store.
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Apparo Academy opened in 2019 as an all-inclusive school for children ages six weeks through kindergarten.
“Everything that is sold here goes back out into the community to the students of Columbia County,” said Brandon. “Right now we have a huge need for children and men’s clothes.”
While you’re able to shop here, the foundation also uses the thrift store to give items to kids.
The organization works with county schools who let them know what kids are in need of.
Brandon says they’re able to do this because of the community.
“The community can’t thrive without folks that are willing to do the work to support the kids in the community and folks who are in need,” said Brandon.
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Helping Hands in Aiken is finding solutions in how it can better help the kids who come through their doors.
The thrift store supports 50% of the foundation’s funding.
They’re now getting ready to give away thousands of dollars worth of scholarships to students continuing their education beyond high school.
Brandon says this foundation means everything to her.
“I just have such a heart for kids and want to see them succeed and have the things they need to be successful in life,” said Brandon.
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