Muskegon Plumb's

The final day of donations for Christmas in May began with 20 boxes of goods waiting for the WOOD TV8 crew when they arrived at Plumb's in Muskegon.

Fans of Bill Blog came out early and often to donate goods at Plumb's in Muskegon for the Christmas in May campaign. One of Bill's Bloggers dropped off goods and picked up a Bill Blog shirt, then more of Bill's Bloggers stopped by.

Yvonne Ramps said the Love Inc ministry is seeing 129 new families each month, and served 571 fmailies in March. There is a big need for these essential items.

A $75 donation bought deodorant and laundry detergent in Muskegon. Around noon, a load of toothpaste was donated, and there's no real need for more in Muskegon.

Items Collected in Muskegon

Toilet Paper - 330
Toothbrush and Toothpaste - 70
Deodorant -64
Shampoo and Conditioner - 73
Bar Soap - 51
Dish Soap - 5
Laundry Detergent - 23
Diapers - 272

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The City of Muskegon has the highest unemployment rate in West Michigan. In March, Muskegon's jobless rate hit 19 percent. That's compared to 14.9 percent in the city of Grand Rapids.

Love Inc., which provides residents in need with food, funds and counseling, has seen a substantial increase in the number of people seeking assistance.

"With the turn in the economy we have seen a 15 percent increase in the number of people that we serve," said Yvonne Ramos, Resource Developer for Love, Inc. "Sometimes people have a need and don't know how to express it. We try to legitimize that need and help individuals work toward self sufficiency."

Collection site:
Plumb's
1663 W Sherman St.
Muskegon

Distributing Pantry:
Love, Inc.
2525 Hall Road
Muskegon 49422
www.loveincofmuskegon.com