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The situation: Many families in our community and surrounding communities find themselves in need. Whether it's job loss, catastrophe, family breakdown, or some other unexpected event. In 2013, over 500,040 families (533,139 exactly) received SNAP benefits in 259,081 homes around Minnesota. These families and single parents all too often find themselves choosing between paying their mortgage or rent, buying basic human needs, or other expenses they may not be able to afford. While many times, this situation may be only temporary, others find themselves struggling to take care of their family's basic needs on a regular basis. These families and others in need may also find that they do not qualify for state assistance with little option for sustainability, many times not knowing what to do or where to turn. There are not many resources out there that provide quick and easy access to gently used clothing, baby equipment, and hygiene products without an application or interview process. While there are programs available to provide these needs, many times they are on a limited basis or cannot meet the need completely. Many of us may find ourselves asking "how does this affect me? I'm not in need." But, poverty and economic hardship affects us ail. You may have a co- worker who is a single parent that is doing all they can to make ends meet. You may also think that you don't know anyone in this situation. Think again. When not being able to meet the needs of themselves or their families, it wreaks a devastating effect on all involved. Being economically deprived is not something many care to share with others or be public about. Molly's World/ The Clothln_q Exchange - A Community Response. Communities all over Minnesota are finding the needs of families and people of unsettled times are more prevalent than realized. There are many programs around the city, county, and state that provide for individuals and families in need. Here in Elk River, there are options for individuals and families in need, such as, CAER, Samaritan Way Food bank, many of the local churches and other organizations. Moll 's World / The Clothing Exchange is a 501(c)3 Non - Profit Organization locally based in Elk River that has been providing clothing, small housewares, basic hygiene products, baby needs, and toys to families in need by having them use their