News Release: 3/29/2025

         Staff and volunteers for WayPoint Resources are making plans for the organization’s annual April Fundraiser. Formerly known as Waukee Area Christian Services, WayPoint Resources offers the largest food pantry and the only free health clinic in Dallas County.
This year’s fundraising goal is $150,000 which is a substantial increase over last year’s fundraiser, a result of record-breaking increases in demands for services. WayPoint Resources Executive Director Melissa Stimple, said today, “Last year we saw a 39 percent increase in new families and individuals using our services.”
            Stimple added, “Over the last four years the number of visits to our food pantry has almost tripled which is the steepest growth we’ve seen in our 19-year history. This year an increasing number of low-income families are fearful of the unknown and are already turning to us for support.”
            Last year WayPoint Resources saw a 33 percent increase in the number of food pantry clients served per month and a 27 percent increase in the number of visits to the Anytime Food Room. The Anytime Food Room offers food rescued from community partners. Traffic in the Food Room has more than quadrupled over the last four years.
            In 2024 WayPoint Resources saw a 59 percent increase in the number of children receiving clothing, a 21 percent increase in the number of free health clinic patients and a 44 percent increase in the number of students receiving school supplies.
            Stimple pointed out that 31 percent of employed households in Dallas County still struggle to afford basic necessities.
            “Struggles often go unseen in our community,” Stimple added. “While wealth may seem abundant, many families quietly face hardship. Our mission is to ensure people can get the basics they need to make it through a difficult situation.”
            WayPoint Resources serves Dallas County and surrounding area with supplemental food, clothing, basic healthcare, school essentials, emergency financial help and personalized guidance through additional community resources.
            The annual fundraiser kicks off on Tuesday, April 1, and concludes on April 26 with a “Brunch of Appreciation” for all supporters at Lutheran Church of Hope Waukee.
            WayPoint Resources depends on donations from the community for 81 percent of its budget. Private grants make up the balance.
            Contributions to WayPoint Resources can be made online by going to WayPoint.care or by mailing them to WayPoint Resources at 1155 S.E. Boone Drive, Waukee, IA 50263. WayPoint Resources is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
            The former Waukee Area Christian Services changed its name to WayPoint Resources earlier this year to reflect the broader scope of resources now offered.
Founded by eight local churches, this nonprofit has grown into a community-driven organization. Board members represent faith-based organizations as well as other individuals, businesses and organizations from across the community.
 
For more information, contact Melissa Stimple at 515-987-5523 or Melissa@WayPoint.care