Julie Watts is a Marcellus resident who volunteers at Helping Hands of Cass County in Cassopolis.

Helping Hands of Cass County is a non-profit organization serving low-income families and individuals in Cass County. There is an on-site food pantry, and a thrift shop. It is located at 130 S. Broadway St., Cassopolis.

 

What do you do for Helping Hands?

I am the boss’ assistant. I help prepare food boxes for people who those who need it and I enter the information into the computer.

 

How long have you been volunteering there?

About a year and a half.

 

How did you first get involved?

My mom volunteers here.

 

Did she ask you to help or did you go on your own?

Both. I came here with her off and on to begin with and then I joined myself.

 

What do you enjoy about volunteering there?

I enjoy helping people get the food they need because some of them come in here with no other resources.

 

What services does Helping Hands offer?

They help give out food. They help give out clothes if you need them, household items. We help fire victims as well.

 

When is it open?

We are open Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

How often do you volunteer there?

At least twice a week.

 

Why do you think it is important to volunteer?

Well, just to give back. We all have a time when we need help ourselves, so it is good to do that for others when you can.

 

How do people take advantage of the services there?

They can come to the store. Anyone who comes in with a referral from DHS we will help. And that is with food, clothing, diapers, household items, bedding. If they don’t have a referral then it is up to Mary if we help them.

 

How many people use the non-thrift store services on a typical day?

I’d say between six and 10 people a day.