Do Drop In serving clients in new location

A blue sign sits propped up on two chairs advising of the new location of the Do Drop In at 900 Mallory Way.

"It will have to do until we get it put up on the building," said Dee Dee Foremaster, director of the Rural Center for Independent Living and Do Drop In.

The center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays. Foremaster and volunteers assist the disabled and homeless in getting Social Security services, health care, living accommodations and jobs. Since opening the center Aug. 30, she has helped people get off the streets and into apartments, as well as gain employment.

Foremaster was asked to move from the center's previous location, 411 Hot Springs Road, No. 4, by building owner JoAnn Sheerin. Sheerin had the Carson City Sheriff's Office serve an eviction notice Nov. 15 to Foremaster ordering her to vacate in 30 days.

Foremaster, shocked at the notice, asked Sheerin for an extension. Sheerin agreed and gave the center until Jan. 15. Foremaster said she and volunteers vacated the premises Feb. 15.

"It may take a while for everyone on the streets to find out where we are," Foremaster said. "We may be out next week doing outreach to let them know. We will go to where the homeless are and give them fliers."

Foremaster said since opening, an amazing thing has happened. People who she has assisted are starting to help others on the street.

"It's like the movie, 'Pay it Forward,'" she said. "It's really wonderful to see what's happening. It's marvelous in that respect."

Foremaster said she and volunteers are still trying to get organized in the new building, which is about the same size as the first. The new location has a dayroom where people can watch TV, read and visit. There is also a hospitality room and a kids center.

"It's a little crazy right now but we're open for business," she said. "You know how it is when you move. But we're getting there."

Foremaster said she signed a two-year lease with property owner John Procaccini. The address is also home to The Connected Church and Cornerstone Music. But her rent is nearly double that of the previous location.

"They definitely want us here and are happy to have us here," Foremaster said. "The church is very supportive of us. They all seem very committed."

But with the increase in rent, Foremaster said, her expenses are going to nearly double.

"We need donations - monetary," she said.

"The expense of moving was very tough on us. And we've already helped a lot of people in the past two days because it's so cold and wet."

Foremaster said she can always use volunteers, specifically someone who can help connect their computers.

"Anyone with a computer service background who can help us would be great."

Foremaster can be reached at 841-2580. Donations may be mailed and payable to: Rural Center for Independent Living, P.O. Box 3177, Carson City, 89702. Note "Do Drop In" at bottom of check.

-- Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.

You can help

WHAT: Donations, volunteers needed at Do Drop In

WHEN: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays

WHERE: 900 Mallory Way

CALL: Dee Dee Foremaster, 841-2580

Mail donations and make payable to: Rural Center for Independent Living, P.O. Box 3177, Carson City, 89702. Note "Do Drop In" at bottom of check.