Patch Picks: Local Nonprofits Making a Difference

Each week, Macomb Patch hightlights editor and reader picks of great local businesses, destinations, services, organizations, ways to spend a day off and more.

Search "Patch Picks" and you'll find useful lists to help you, your family, friends and significant others find the best places for everything from Sunday brunch to New Year's Eve celebrations, pumpkin patches, date night destinations, florists, girlfriend nights out, kids party places, parks and more.

This week, we're featuring five great nonprofits serving the local community.

5 Great Local Nonprofits

1. The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an international movement aimed at providing basic human needs without discrimination. Started in 1865 by William Booth, a London minister, the organization has since spread worldwide. 

On Northpointe Boulevard in Utica, The Salvation Army is a family store and donation center that offers items every family needs. The store is filled with clothing, toys, home furnishings, kitchenware,  and much more. 

Monetary donations as well as donations in the form of clothing and other items are accepted.

To learn more about The Salvation Army and its mission, or to make a financial contribution, visit www.salvationarmy.org.

2. Shelby Life Skills 

Developmentally disabled adults are welcomed and nurtured at Shelby Life Skills. They care for each individual to suit their specific needs. Shelby Life Skills offers activities in socialization, communication, and daily living skills. Program director Debra Schmitt oversees all interactions. 

To learn more about Shelby Life Skills, or to make a financial contribution, visit www.lifeskillscentersinc.org/programs/shelby.php.

3. Humane Society of Macomb

For the Shelby-Utica animal lover, the Humane Society of Macomb Animal Shelter has been a safe haven for all kinds of pets since 1967. Their mission to prevent cruelty to animals is evidenced in all that they do. Each and every animal at the Humane Society of Macomb is treated as a family member.

The Human Society accepts monetary donations, but they also need volunteers. They are always looking for professional groomers, and people who just want to spend some time with the animals. In addition, the shelter has a list of items that may be donated, including canned cat and dog food, Kleenex, parrot food, postage stamps and more.

To learn more about the Humane Society of Macomb Animal Shelter, or to make a contribution, visit www.humanesocietyofmacomb.org.

4. Hope Center in Macomb

Hope Center in Macomb provides food assistance to Macomb County residents through a no-cost client choice food pantry. For every dollar donated to Hope Center, 94 cents is used to buy food to feed those in need. The organization also provides referrals to other non-profit community service agencies, assistance in filling out paperwork or applications and onsite chaplain services.

5. Macomb County Rotating Emergency Shelter Team (MCREST)

A nonprofit agency since 1989, MCREST is a rotating emergency shelter team that hosts the homeless in churches located throughout Macomb County. The organization provides, meals, lodging, life-skills training, housing assistance and emergency shelter for the homeless 365 days a year. Local member churches include , St. Francis-St. Maximilian Catholic Community and the

Next week's Patch Picks: Boutiques.

Put your suggestions in the comments box. And be sure to come back to see our Macomber's picks!