The panic over corona virus is having a ripple effect on Lexington County nonprofit ministries. Mission Lexington is one of the biggest providers of food and services in the area. They are requiring all staff and volunteers to wear gloves while interacting with the public in addition to massive cleaning efforts.

The Mission Lexington thrift store is closed until further notice. It is a big part of the revenue stream that allows ML to provide for so many. If they are unable to replace those lost dollars, services may be cut further.

Social services is closed for now, but those on the Food for Living program can still pick up their food at the back door. Those in need of food can also use the back door.

His House Ministries is another human service provider with 4 thrift stores.

Administrator Mary Weaver said their stores are vital for them. They have 9 group homes for recovering alcoholics.

The men work in the stores as part of their rehabilitation. Weaver said shoppers are down close to 90%. It is not good for those in recovery to be idle, and fewer shoppers may mean closing some stores.

To prevent the spread of the virus, they are undergoing extensive cleaning and sanitation. The men at the group homes have their temperature checked daily and are screened for any symptoms. If anyone becomes symptomatic, they will be quarantined right away.

Crossroads World Outreach runs a food pantry for dozens of people in Lexington. They are still operational, but have had to make changes in how they operate to comply with recent orders from the Governor.

Food recipients must now drive up to the door or receive their allotment in the parking lot.

Crossroads continues to get food donations from local grocery stores, other food pantries and individuals. They have received so much that they have been able to help 7 more families than in February.

Calvary Chapel reports significantly reduced traffic at their thrift store. Crystal Hardesty, a VP with Goodwill, said they are operating their regular schedule after implementing additional cleaning and sanitization practices.

Hardesty reported a slight drop in shoppers and givers, but said she has been impressed at how many people are trying to support non-profits.

Goodwill continues to offer job training programs for their clients.

Nonprofits need additional food and money to keep providing for the less fortunate in Lexington County. Families are depending on them to get by.

Robin Bowers of Mission Lexington encourages people to “be the ripple” by helping those in need.