LOYAL. LOCAL. COMPLETE.
As winter approaches, a grassroots effort led by local volunteers is preparing to bring warmth, support and essential supplies to residents across Edgar County. A series of Winter Resource events will take place in six communities on Dec. 6, 7 and 13, offering free coats, hats, gloves, hoodies, nonperishable food and hygiene items to anyone in need—no questions asked.
The distribution schedule covers Kansas, Hume, Metcalf, Brocton, Chrisman and Vermilion, ensuring that families in every corner of the county have convenient access. The events are entirely donation-driven and made possible by the work of Paris resident Bill Stidham, along with volunteers such as April Burns, Julie and Kevin Metcalf and a network of generous community members.
Stidham began organizing clothing events at the local soup kitchen in August. At first, it was a simple effort: take donated items, clean and sort them, set them out and let visitors take what they needed. But as the need became more apparent, so did the desire to expand.
“Julie and Kevin Metcalf asked me about doing some events in other towns,” Stidham said. “I’m all for that, because I get donations from every other town. So why not give back to those towns?”
The group reached out to contacts in each community to ensure they would be welcome. Doors opened almost immediately.
“We’ve been graciously accepted in almost every community,” Stidham said. “There is such a huge need, and we need to meet it.”
The upcoming events are free and open to all, regardless of income, residency or circumstance.
“It doesn’t matter who you are or what your situation is,” Stidham emphasized. “We’re human. We all have needs. And everybody deserves warm feet, warm backs and basic dignity.”
The community’s response has been overwhelming, particularly in Paris. A recent clothing giveaway saw a plethora of visitors and revealed just how deep the winter needs run.
“At the one we did in Paris, I gave out over 300 pairs of socks,” Stidham said. “And I limit them to three pairs each, so there’s enough for everyone. That just shows you how big the need is.”
Despite the volume, some items remain consistently difficult to source.
“The biggest thing is hats and gloves, especially men’s gloves,” Stidham said. “Men’s clothing is hard to get. Kids’ clothing is also hard to get.”
When the Paris event fell short on children’s coats, Stidham turned to Facebook. Within hours, the community responded and provided brand-new coats for all 11 children in need.
“Paris is phenomenal for donations,” he said. “The generosity is just fantastic.”
Donations of new or gently used winter clothing, nonperishable food and hygiene products are accepted at any time. To donate, residents can contact Bill Stidham at (217) 921-4364, or Kevin Metcalf at (765) 205-6990.
“I always accept donations,” he said. “If I’m not home, people leave them on my porch. And if someone’s handicapped or can’t get out, I’ll go pick it up.”
Additional drop-off locations include the Front Street Market in Hume and Brocton Prospect Bank (accepting winter gear and nonperishables.)
Stidham and several local ministers have also developed a small furniture ministry, matching donated household goods with families who need them.
“I post pictures, set up pickups, do all of it,” he said. “Everything’s so expensive nowadays. People just can’t afford it.”
Stidham says he prefers doing most of the sorting and preparation himself, not out of pride, but out of care.
“If something comes in that I wouldn’t wear, then no one else is going to get it,” he said. “This way, I know people are getting quality items. Things I’d be proud to hand someone.”
Beyond the material needs, Stidham sees a spiritual purpose in the work as well.
“It’s all about taking care of each other,” he said. “I’ve been ridiculed. People say ‘you’re enabling them.’ I don’t care. What would Jesus do? Jesus would say, ‘This is what I want you to do.’”
Though the needs can feel heavy, Stidham is consistently encouraged by the support he sees across Edgar County.
“There is bad here, yes, but there is so much more good in this town,” he said. “People I never expected have reached out wanting to donate. And I’ve even had donations come from Paxton, Champaign, Newton, Taylorville; all from people who once lived in Paris and want to give back.”
As the Winter Resource events prepare to launch, Stidham hopes residents will spread the word, donate if they can and stop by if they need help, whether it’s a coat, a meal or simply knowing they’re not alone.
“Anybody that wants to help in any way, shape or form, I’ll accept it,” he said. “And anybody who needs something, just reach out. We’re here.”
For more information or to arrange a donation, contact Bill Stidham at 217-921-4364 or Kevin Metcalf at 765-205-6990.