Golden Age Foundation to take over monthly donation events

SALVATION ARMY

The Salvation Army donation event on March 15 was a huge success as shareholders donated enough unwanted belongings to fill two trucks to the brim, requiring a third truck. The event has thus far been organized and managed by a collaboration between the Salvation Army and the Golden Rain Foundatoin. Beginning Saturday, April 12, the event will continue under the stewardship of the Golden Age Foundation (GAF).

The program, dubbed “Salvation Saturdays,” brings Salvation Army donation trucks into Leisure World every month, providing a convenient and cost-effective way for residents to rid themselves of unwanted items. The program, which began in September 2024, has gathered 17 truckloads of valuable clothing and household items, all of which have gone to support the Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Centers located across Southern California.

GAF President Anna Derby said the nonprofit’s board was happy to accept the new responsibility. The GAF manages a large number of programs that benefit shareholders, including tax assistance, document shredding, mobility aid loans, battery recycling and more.

In addition to giving residents a convenient venue to drop off donations, the program also saves shareholders money since it cuts down on expensive haul-away costs for cast-offs that were previously disposed of at the 1.8-Acre site.

The next event will be held on April 12, from 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at the Amphitheater.

For more information on donating or to volunteer, contact Geneva Potepan at 951-6754271 or email mom4rascal@aol.com.

The Salvation Army accepts donations of clean, gently used, salable household items including clothing, bedding, kitchenware, small appliances and electronics, toys, sporting goods, books, art, home decor and small and medium furniture.

Donation bags are available in the clubhouses, LW Library and the News Office.