About Us
Fresh Start is a nonprofit community outreach organization that started in May 2007 and is located in Eldon, Missouri. We consist of a small group of Christians who want to help with community needs that aren't already being focused on by other organizations. Our current outreach program is providing new school clothing for children K-8th grade in the Eldon area. Fresh Start plans to make the new school clothing give away an annual outreach.In the fall of 2007 we were able to provide nearly 200 children with at least one long sleeve shirt, one short sleeve shirt, one pair of pants, socks, and underwear. Some of the children also received a pair of shorts or a skirt. And this was only our FIRST year! We are so thankful for the success we’ve had so far. This was only possible because the community reached out to help us, help these children.
As we grow, our goal is to increase the number of outreach programs that we provide, without taking away from our primary focus, new clothing for children K-8th grade. First and foremost we would like to increase the amount of clothing items given to each child and to include tennis shoes as part of the K-8th grade new clothing program.
We would eventually like to add programs for students in high school and also for adults. For high school kids in 9-12th grade we would like to help with prom dresses, tuxes, shoes and accessories. We also hope to one day be able to set up scholarship funds for college. Goals for future adult programs include: providing business attire, job application training, and helping to create effective resumes.
We would also like to expand on outreaches for the younger kids as well by starting an adopt-a-child program. This program would bring members of the community together with a child that could benefit from their support. Some of the items that might be provided are school supplies, new school clothes and shoes, and help with any sport or after school program fees that the child may not be able to participate in otherwise. This would be a great way to help the children of the community realize their goals of a bright, successful future - and to know that their entire community stands behind them in that pursuit.
As you can see we have big hopes and plans for our organization and we believe one day we will be able to incorporate these programs and more into Fresh Start. We hope that you will join us in our mission of offering a fresh start to those in our community.
We invite you to explore our website and learn more about us. If we can answer any questions or provide additional information, please call Sarah Merriman 573.280.2453 or email us at: sarah.freshstart@gmail.com
