By Lynn Binnie
Whitewater Banner volunteer staff
whitewaterbanner@gmail.com

Anyone who visits The Community Space can’t help but marvel at the generosity of the greater Whitewater community’s residents for their donations of food, clothing, and so much more — not to mention the cheerful helpfulness of the volunteers who make it such a welcoming place. Everything is free! Who’s ever seen such a place, anywhere?

It’s said that everyone has a breaking point, and according to Kay Robers, manager of the organization, that point was reached on October 31. As a result she is regretfully announcing that The Community Space (TCS) is closed until further notice.

What’s wrong?

The Little Free Pantry in the vestibule includes a refrigerator and provides 24/7 access for people who have an immediate need for groceries. It’s an appreciated service, but recently, especially on weekends, there have been times when it’s virtually impossible to access the free pantry due to the huge amount of donations that have been crammed into the small space. Besides, visitors ransack the donations, and when the volunteer staff returns it takes hours of work before they can even free up the inside door.

Granted, a donation bin has been provided to allow people to drop off clothing or houseware items when it is convenient for them. However, TCS has requested that big items like furniture or large quantity donations be dropped off at the back of the building during their open hours.

Before TCS can reopen the staff needs to determine what changes need to be made in order to more effectively serve the community. Meanwhile they are sharing the following letters that have been received recently from two guests who’ve appreciated what they’ve encountered at The Community Space.