FAQs
Q: What is Fresh Start?A: Fresh Start is a nonprofit community outreach organization that is located in Eldon, Missouri. Our current focus is providing new school clothing for children K-8th grade in the Eldon area.
Q: How does Fresh Start get their funding?
A: Currently Fresh Start is operating as a "grass roots" organization. We raise money through bake sales, community garage sales, and change cans at various locations in Eldon. We also accept monetary and clothing donations from businesses, churches and others in the community.
Q: How long has Fresh Start been operating?
A: We started in May 2007.
Q: Who does Fresh Start help?
A: We are currently focusing on children K-8th grade in the Eldon, Missouri area. However, if you are outside of this area please contact us and we will try and help you find an organization that fits your needs.
Q: How can I sign my children up for clothing?
A: The best place to find us is at the Eldon Back to School Fair. If you missed the Back to School Fair, or are looking for additional help, please contact us anytime throughout the school year and we will try our best to accommodate you.
Q: How does Fresh Start determine who to help?
A: We provide clothing to anyone who asks for help as long as there are funds available. Currently, we do not have any eligibility requirements such as an income cap or level of need.
Q: What can I expect to receive for my child?
A: Our minimum goal per child is one long sleeve shirt, one short sleeve shirt, one pair of pants, socks and underwear. We hope to be able to give more, but there is also the possibility of less as it is dependent on the number of children who are signed up and the funds available at that time.
Q: When do I get the clothing for my child?
A: Fresh Start tries our best to distribute the clothing before the first day of school. Families signing up at the Back to School Fair will, at that time, be given specific information on when/where to pick up their clothing. We will call parents/guardians and try to arrange for an alternate pick up or drop off time for any clothing that is not claimed on the scheduled distribution date.
If you did not sign up at the Back to School Fair but are scheduled to receive clothing, we will contact you with pick up or drop off information. If you have any questions or would like to know the status, you can contact us as any time.
Q: How can I help?
A: We accept monetary and new clothing donations all year long. Please remember that right now we are focused on children K-8th grade. The typical sizes for clothing are 5 – 18. Please refer to the Make a Donation page for more information about donations. Also, you can contact us anytime if you have suggestions for fund raising ideas or would like to volunteer your time. And don’t forget to periodically check out the News and Events page.
Q: Are my donations to Fresh Start tax deductable?
A: We currently are not practicing as a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, but have plans to be such in the future. Please email us if you would like to be notified when our 501(c)(3) status is approved.
