FORT WAYNE, Indiana – Employees of Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) have once again stepped up for local veterans through a companywide donation drive that benefitted the Fort Wayne nonprofit Clothes for Joes. The effort, organized by I&M’s Military Veterans Employee Resource Group, ran over the summer and collected hundreds of essential hygiene products and other everyday necessities.
Volunteer effort and donated items
Beyond gathering the supplies, I&M volunteers spent time sorting, organizing, and personally delivering the donations to Clothes for Joes. This marks the third consecutive year the utility’s workforce has coordinated the drive, demonstrating a sustained commitment to the veteran community.
The donated items included hard‑to‑find products such as shaving supplies and women’s hygiene items—goods that the nonprofit often struggles to purchase due to limited funding. Executive Director Andrew Messmer of Clothes for Joes emphasized how vital these contributions are, noting that the organization’s budget does not allow it to buy many of the items on its own.
I&M Foundation adds grant support
In addition to the in‑kind donations, the I&M Foundation announced grant funding to help Clothes for Joes as it prepares to move into a larger facility. The expanded space will enable the nonprofit to serve more veterans throughout Northeast Indiana and Northeast Ohio, increasing access to clothing, hygiene products, and other essential resources.
Community members who wish to support Clothes for Joes can learn about volunteer opportunities and specific donation needs directly from the organization. The nonprofit encourages local residents to contribute whatever they can, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that makes the annual drive successful.
Why the drive matters
Veterans often face unique challenges when transitioning to civilian life, and basic necessities like clean clothing and personal hygiene supplies can be hard to obtain. By providing these items, I&M employees help preserve the dignity of those who have served and ease the financial strain on a charity that operates on a shoestring budget.
The partnership between a major regional employer and a veteran‑focused nonprofit exemplifies how businesses can play a constructive role in strengthening families and communities—a core value for Fort Wayne residents.
Looking ahead
With the upcoming move to a larger facility, Clothes for Joes anticipates expanding its reach and offering more comprehensive support to veterans across the region. Continued involvement from corporate partners like Indiana Michigan Power will be essential to sustaining and growing these vital services.
For more information on how to volunteer or donate, visit the Clothes for Joes website or contact their office directly.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
