Mabee-Simpson Library           offers amnesty for students

Camille Beary, assistant director of the library, said each year during spring and fall finals, the library forgives all outstanding fines if the student brings in a non-perishable food item to be donated to "Batesville Help and Hope." This year they can also bring in linens, towels, toiletries, and shampoo for flood victims. These are items that "Help and Hope" does not purchase.

The event benefits the students as well as those needing the donated items, she added. It gives the students a chance to carry out Lyon College's tradition of philanthropy-giving to the community and to those in need.

According to the group's Web site, Batesville Help and Hope, a United Way Agency, was incorporated in 1987 to provide food and clothing at no charge to residents of Independence County who are in need. Concerned citizens from area churches felt that a single, efficiently run center could serve people more easily than the existing church pantries and clothes closets.

In March of 1987, Help and Hope opened its doors in a vacant neighborhood grocery store.  In September of 1994, Help and Hope, through the generosity of businesses, individuals, and churches, was able to purchase the present building which provided more space.

Help and Hope continues to be supported by the community through the United Way, area churches and other groups and individuals in the county.

The center is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m. Ð noon, and is located at 2622 East Main. Donations of non-perishable foods, personal hygiene products and good, clean clothing are gratefully accepted during the work hours. The agency especially is asking for linens, towels, toiletries, and hair shampoo for the victims of flooding in Independence County.