A non-profit organization that caters to the whole world is asking for more donations and volunteer help at its location in Jefferson.

Midwest Mission Public Relations Specialist Danille Curtis says there are two dedicated repair shops within the Jefferson site, including bicycles and sewing machines that can be fixed and then taken to other places across the globe as part of Midwest Missions’ micro-business program. She describes one area of the world where repaired sewing machines made an impact.

“We actually had a program set up in Honduras, there was a training program for young women to come in and to learn how to use their sewing machines, and to learn tailoring skills and sewing skills. And then when they completed the training, they got to take their sewing machine home, and those were all machines that were donated from Midwest Mission.” 

Curtis points out that volunteers are needed to make repairs, especially with sewing machines, but people should not be nervous if they do not have skills at fixing sewing machines.

“We have checklists for all of the items and what happens is you can come in and work, and you just do what you can, and then tag where you are, so that the next person that comes in can pick up where you left off.”    

Curtis adds that they accept treadle and electric sewing machines, as well as medium and wide-tire bikes with little to no rust, and will not accept bikes that are ten-speed, or meant for road racing or have thin-tires. Donations can be made Monday through Thursday from 8:30am-3pm, and people can stop in then or call 515-386-2236 or Curtis at 515-351-1166 to learn more about being a volunteer.