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THOR- For 10 years Sandi Schade has been a bright spot for low-income families struggling to make ends meet.

Armed with her social services degree, Schade works with 600 families in Wright County from the Eagle Grove office of Upper Des Moines Opportunity.

She has multiple programs at her disposal to help those in need from senior citizens to young families, and as the temperatures climb, the not-for-profit organization is busy with its garden program.

Funded by generous donations, Schade provides her clients with seeds, onion sets and seed potatoes. Next week, she will have pepper and tomato plants ready to go.

"For people who don't have space for a garden, we've offered them upside-down tomato plants to grow," Schade said. "Others who live in apartments keep their plants in pots outside of their door."

All of the plants and seeds are free, but that doesn't mean the recipients don't pay it forward.

"People who have a surplus of vegetables bring them in for others to have," Schade said.

Local farmers even get into the groove donating sweet corn and eggs.

Schade is an especially lucrative resource for those starting a garden. For years Schade has maintained the backyard of her home in Thor which she converted into an outdoor oasis. Only a block south of the restaurant Unkie's Entertainer, Schade's backyard attracts patrons who wander in and look around.

"I have 17 flower beds," Schade said, "not to mention all the vegetables."

Along with gardening materials, Schade helps people meet their heating bills, eviction notices and disconnections of their water and utilities. She does this not only because it is her job, but she has also weathered some difficult periods in life.

"I've been through two divorces, and I've been in poverty," Schade said. "I know what their situations are like."

Kids are also given opportunities. The organization provided 205 children with back-to-school supplies and offer athletic scholarships. These give kids the chance to play in park and recreational activities. Swimming passes are also purchased and given to kids for the Eagle Grove aquatic center.

"All kids should get a chance to swim and participate in sports," Schade said.

Children and their parents are also able to have clothes from the UDMO clothes closet. Clients can even bring in the clothes they or their kids have outgrown and pick up new items. There is no charge for this service. Schade has seen 321 individuals benefit from this program.

While Schade holds down responsibilities at the office, it's the kindness of the community that makes all programs possible.

"We couldn't do this without donations from businesses, churches and individuals," Schade said. "Our ability to work with other agencies also makes our work easier."

That's right. If Schade can't offer a solution to a problem, she has a slew of resources at her fingertips to give individuals the assistance they need.

"When you help someone, and they really appreciate it, there's nothing better," Schade said. Over the years, she has received cards, phone calls and hugs of gratitude.

Even her boss, Outreach Center Director Justin Jones, is incredibly grateful for Schade's dedication and hard work.

"She does an excellent job of operating the Wright County office," Jones said. "I know she is doing everything in her power to serve the individuals of this county."

Although she is eligible for retirement soon Schade loves the variety, challenges and hope her job provides.

"Different people ask me when I'll retire," Schade said. "I just smile and tell them, 'When I get old I'll retire. In the meantime I'll keep working'

Contact Lindsay Ory at (515) 573-2141 or editor@messengernews.net