Celebrating 50 Years of Dutchess Outreach Impact

Dutchess Outreach has been a cornerstone in the Dutchess County community for 50 years, offering extensive support to those in need through food programs and the Susan DeKeukelaere Memorial Coat Drive. Nyhisha Gibbs and Mary Dynes highlight the organization's commitment to providing "nutritional rich food" through various means, such as a food pantry set up like a supermarket, and hot meals available twice daily plus a Sunday brunch at their Lunch Box service.

Nyhisha Gibbs, a key figure at Dutchess Outreach, articulates the mission of the organization: "We have several programs that we run just to help people with no questions asked, no judgment zone, restoration of dignity," emphasizing the judgment-free assistance they offer to all.

The organization also hosts a farm stand every third Friday, distributing fresh produce and other food items to about 150-200 people monthly, showing the scale and impact of their efforts. In addition to these food services, Dutchess Outreach organizes an annual coat drive, crucial as the colder months approach. Mary Dynes describes the high demand for not only coats but also for accessories like hats, scarves, and especially socks, highlighting the community's needs.

This year's coat drive involves collection points at local businesses where community members can donate gently used or new coats, helping ensure everyone can stay warm during the winter. The collected coats are distributed through various events and locations listed on their website, dutchessoutreach.org, making it easy for those in need to access these resources.

For more detailed information on their programs, volunteer opportunities, or to find out how to receive or donate a coat, please visit DutchessOutreach.org.

Listen to the Full Interview: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/eAdoFOYcDOb