McClane talks about CADC plans in county

By Staff, 05/13/20 10:46 AM

PRESCOTT – There’s good news on the way for county residents in need.

The Central Arkansas Development Council will be handing out 300 boxes of food on May 29 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. Amy McClane, Nevada County Family and Community Enrichment Specialist with the CADC, provided this information to the Nevada County Quorum Court at its May meeting Tuesday evening.

She said the boxes will weigh about 50 pounds each and contain meat, vegetables and other items such as toilet paper and paper towels. But volunteers are needed to help pack the boxes and get them to vehicles the food will be brought to the people who are required to stay in their vehicles.

This will be done from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. All who come must meet income guidelines, which is being at 125 percent of the national poverty level. Volunteers will be needed on May 28 to help pack the boxes, as well as handing them out on May 29.

Patrons will pass through three checkpoints when the arrive at the fairgrounds. At the first stop they’ll be given a pen and form to fill out. The second stop will see someone check the information and make sure they’re eligible. Those who are eligible will get a ticket. They will turn in the ticket at the third stop and get the box of food and supplies.

This is only phase I, McClane said, as the CADC has a grant and is planning to do more in the county. In June, she added, the CADC will be on hand to help people with their rent and utility bills.

“We’re looking forward to doing great things in Nevada County,” she said. Also, on May 29, she added, members of the CADC’s administration will be on hand for the food handout. The goal is to use the Extension Homemaker’s Building for them and have local leaders visit to talk about what’s needed in the county.

Overall, she said, the goal is to break the cycle of poverty. McClane told the court the CADC is working to get people to fill out their census forms as well, and has programs in place to help impoverished people learn how to plan a budget, get jobs and further their education. She pointed out she’s the only person with the CADC in Nevada County, but will do all she can to help.

In helping people break the cycle of poverty, she said there are some incentives. Those who sign up and stay with the program for six months will get $400. This money can be used to pay rent, utilities or for other needs, such as buying clothes for a job. The program includes teaching people how to plan menus, set and reach goals and look for and overcome barriers, among others.

McClane currently works out of Hope while her office at the old McRae Middle School Gym is being built. Once it’s finished, she’ll be in Prescott full-time. “I’ve had good response from the people I’ve worked with so far,” she said.

In addition, she said, the CADC has information on the COVID-19 virus, telling what it is and how people can protect themselves and others.