Community charity in south-central Idaho sees community rallying for those in need

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT / KSVT) -The Center-South Community Action Partnership in Twin Falls, the community is mobilizing for those who need it most. KMVT explains the reality many face and how the Magic Valley operates through unprecedented times.

When KMVT walked into the Community Action Hall on Monday afternoon after a vacation weekend, it was hard not to notice the many people looking for resources and in need of help. People come looking for extra help paying their rent or maybe paying the water or electricity bill.

The need for food is also a big issue as the association distributes around 50-60 boxes of food when it is open to the community, which is a lot compared to the past. Director of Community Services Randy Wastradowski describes the current needs of the low-income population.

“The cost of housing increased by wages didn’t necessarily have to,” Wastradowski said. “So people find themselves in a situation where they work but just can’t afford where they live in the month, so it seems like a big deal almost a bigger problem than outright homelessness.

Those who are looking for a helping hand come from all walks of life. Despite the challenges facing so many peoples’ neighbors, the partnership says the community is doing better to help provide the resources to those struggling to make ends meet.

“I think a lot of people are still doing well,” Wastradowski said. “It’s going well, but there are still a lot of people who are not and although there is a great need, the community is mobilizing to help those who need it.”

How the community has grown stronger in these extraordinary times is exemplified in Community Action’s recent turkey campaign, where the organization exceeded its goals.

“I still think the ultimate question is the future,” Wastradowski said. “We don’t know how long this will last. Will we see more stops? Hopefully not.”

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