Jaselyn Putman saw “things that need to be done” in the community where she works, she said, and she decided to make a difference.
Promoted earlier this year to manager at Clair Beauty Mart in Glenwood, Putman, 29, saw an opportunity for the business and its customers to give back to the community with a collection to benefit Respond Now, a nonprofit that provides essential services to people in the south suburbs.
More Top Picks Best Travel Mobility Scooters
“Basically I did this because you don’t see too many beauty supplies who do too many charities,” Putman said. “I just think we could give back.”
Putman, who calls Respond Now a “community shelter” because of what it offers, said she chose the organization because it is “right down the street … and a lot of people in the area go there.”
To support Respond Now, Clair Beauty Mart will hold what it is calling a Respond Now Holiday Food Drive through Dec. 24 at 19354 S. Halsted, Glenwood, but it will be much more than a food drive, Putman said.
“The manager (of Respond Now) told me anybody is welcome there,” Putman said. “They don’t turn anybody away and they help with utilities, school clothes, everything. They go the extra little mile.”
Putman said the collection at Clair Beauty Mart will take “any and everything” that people would like to donate as long as it is in good condition. Offers of cash donations will be referred to Respond Now.
Holding a holiday benefit is also a first for the Clair Beauty Mart owner, Chang Hong, Putman said. She said the owner will donate men’s clothing from other stores he owns and items from Clair. She said the items will be new and unused.
Putman said customers have responded well and the store’s nine employees are planning their donations.
“We’re collecting through Dec. 24 because we want a really big turnout,” Putman said.
“I feel like we need to start with our community first before we try to donate to the world,” Putman said. “Take care of home first.”
Respond Now is a 501(c)(3), United Way-sponsored agency, according to its website, www.respondnow.org.
Funding is from private donations, government grants and corporate and foundation support. It helps provide services such as food, rent/mortgage assistance, utility assistance, prescription medications, emergency lodging, clothing and transportation to families in 22 communities in the Southland, the website said.