GIVE IT UP, MAHASKA!

In 2020, during the COVID shutdown, Lorretta Beghtol wanted to help people get essential items that had become difficult to obtain due to store closures and job losses. With necessities in short supply, she reached out to me, and together we brainstormed and created a Facebook group called Give It Up Mahaska We invited some of our Facebook friends, and as the group grew, I added my daughter, Lani Anderson, to help. As membership continued to increase, we brought in more admins, including my cousin Jessica.

The group was designed as a private space for friends to share items or trade services, with no monetary exchange involved. It became a recycling-style program where people posted photos of items they no longer needed, and others could claim them. Arrangements for pick-up or delivery were made within the group.

As the group expanded to nearly 4,000 members, it became clear that we needed a physical space to store the donated items. Initially, we took things to our homes, but we quickly ran out of room. Eventually, we partnered with Open Bible Church, where the pastors generously offered space to house the items. The group evolved into a resource hub, and we added a food pantry and medical loan closet alongside clothing and small furniture.

When Open Bible Church closed, we moved to St. Paul Church, which also became too small as our efforts grew. We then moved into a new location offered by a partner who was establishing another food pantry in town. Unfortunately, due to leasing issues, we had to relocate again. Now, we’re settled in a much larger, more convenient space at the mall, giving us greater autonomy.

We have officially registered as a nonprofit organization and are excited to apply for grants to continue expanding our mission. Our plans include holding board meetings, organizing new fundraisers, and extending our hours of operation.

We have PREVIOUSLY partnered with Mahaska County Emergency Management, Crisis Intervention Service, Hospice, SIEDA, and other local resources. We’ve provided items like tents, food, backpacks, and winter coats to the homeless and packed “GO” bags for women and children involved in domestic situations. We look forward to growing our impact and continuing to serve our community!