Oakridge Service Center Celebrates First Anniversary

October 13 marks one year since St. Vincent de Paul first opened the doors of the Oakridge Service Center. Excited store customers streamed through the doors in search of bargains, while others went to check out the Laundromat, Oakridge's first in several years. Some just walked around, marveling at the facility's transformation from a roller skating rink to a shining new multi-purpose center.

One year later we're still bowled over the enormous support we've received from the entire Oakridge community. The retail store and the Laundromat are thriving. Two companies, including Oregon by Heart, have opened their doors in the business incubator. Volunteers visit people in their homes to provide friendship and access to free goods such as clothing, furniture and beds. We've provided children in need with coats and school supplies, and we've helped raise money so families can have a nourishing meal around the December holidays. 

Below is a summary of some of our accomplishments to date. We hope you'll stop by soon to visit and learn more about everything we have to offer.

Oakridge Service Center Accomplishments from 2011-2012:

• Distributed utility assistance to 153 people (including 81 seniors and people with disabilities).
• Purchased food for holiday food boxes in December.   
• Provided scholarships so low-income children can participate in local sports programs.
• Purchase school supplies for children in need.
• Established a group of faith community volunteers who visit people requesting assistance in their homes.  So far the volunteers have visited 34 low-income families to distribute vouchers for beds, clothing and other free items from our stores.
• Hosted a drive to collect coats for local children.  To date we’ve collected 150 coats. 
• Provided job assessment, training and placement services to 17 people. 
• Re-started a Savings Club in Oakridge.  Three people are participating regularly.
• Developed a business incubator program and served two businesses. 
• The conference room is being used regularly for classes on health and wellness, energy efficiency, business incubation, financial literacy, and art.