Shipments Continue to the Ft. Lyon Residential Community in Las Animas

Ft Lyon Residence Center

Seventeen trips and counting, is one way to look at the amount of donated clothing, furniture and everyday items that have been sent to the Ft. Lyon Community with the most recent taking place on Tuesday, May 26.  There doesn’t appear to be any lack of items to donate from the Prowers County area, and by the same token, the need hasn’t diminished by that much.  The Center has been in operation in Las Animas for over a year, offering support, treatment and counseling to homeless men and women in Colorado as well as specifically helping homeless veterans’ re-establish themselves in a general community setting.

Travis Melton Grabs a Carton

The collection and distribution of the donations are the work of the Lamar Lion’s Club, under the direction of Dick Ramsay and Ken Callison.  Both men approached PCDI in July of last year, seeking a collection site for the materials.  The solution was just a door down from the office at the Rodeway Cow Palace Inn as Doug Thrall donated a vacant office for the Lion’s use.  Since that time, materials have been coming in to help offset the shortages for the residents of the Center in Las Animas.  Seven loads had been taken by October of last year and the number is now up to 17.  Not small loads either.

Ten Year Old Mary is Ready for a Run to the Trailer

Once enough goods have been collected, they’re loaded on a donated 20 foot trailer from the Christian Church by Ramsay and Callison and assorted volunteers, who were the youngest to date, as seen from this past Tuesday.  As the operation at the Ft. Lyon Residential Community continues to grow, some of the unused houses on the acreage are opened to residents which also open the need for general furnishings, from rugs to sofas to kitchen supplies, chairs and tables.  Donations may be dropped off at the Rodeway Cow Palace Inn at the southeast office just prior to the PCDI offices.

Ken Callison, Chester Vetter and Leroy Mauch

The Lion’s recently appointed a new president, with Leroy Mauch replacing Ken Callison for a term.

Ellen and Wyane Clausen were recognized for having been a continuing member for over 40 years with the Lions.  Kathy Callison noted that one person has knitted over 217 caps of various styles and colors for the residents of the Center in lieu of any cash donations.  The yarn is donated and anyone wishing to contribute to her efforts is invited to call 719-688-8782.

By Russ Baldwin