Join local businesses this May to spruce up the MCFHC, a sanctuary for children and families in need
By Allison Pollock-Pugh
Not easily spotted on the corner of 19th and Sprague, the Multicultural Child & Family Hope Center (MCFHC) is a beacon of hope and a wealth of resources for disadvantaged children, youth and families of color in the Tacoma community. Gail Neal, founder and executive director, is a woman with grit and perseverance. She and her team are resolute in their dedication to providing free or reduced-cost supplies, support and services to families in need throughout Pierce County.
As a nonprofit organization, MCFHC provides these services through government contracts, private grants, and the support of donors and volunteers. Local business owners Amy Flippo (Harbornest) and Cameron Smith (Edward Jones) are determined to help the center thrive and grow. In addition to serving on the Board of Directors, Amy and Cameron coordinate an Annual Clean-Up Event each spring.
“We visited the MCFHC campus in 2017 and were blown away by the staff’s dedication. They welcome anyone in need with respect and love and treat them like family. We got involved then and became more active in organizing volunteer events and raising funds,” shares Cameron.
At the Clean-Up Event, members of the community work to spruce up the center’s campus. Local businesses donate supplies, and families, church groups, scout troops and students help with special projects while earning volunteer hours.
“Each year at the Clean-Up Event, we complete various projects throughout the campus. We’ve painted, built fences, replaced light fixtures, installed new recess equipment, done gardening—it’s really just about working together to support them however we can,” affirms Amy.
When members of the community approach Gail and her team for help, the answer is always “Yes.” That’s how the once small daycare has grown into 42 programs: from free and reduced-cost childcare, transitional housing, family support services, providing free diapers and food to families in need of assistance, and more. The Multicultural Child & Family Hope Center is a true treasure in our own neighborhood.
Show your community some love and spend a day helping an organization that makes a difference in the lives of local families every day. The Clean-Up Event is scheduled for Saturday, May 20, from 9am to 3pm. Please visit Harbornest.com to learn more and to register to participate.
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