by Bea Peterson
On December 23, 2008, the Hoosick Area Church Association purchased the former Credit Union building on lower John St. HACA had been renting the facility for the past year. It houses the Food Closet and is the site of the VITA tax service. Dianne Hosterman is optimistic that the organization can pay off the 30 year mortgage in three years with a $100,000 capital campaign. “We raised enough money this year to pay the rent and make a down payment and cover closing costs,” said Hosterman. This first year will be a little difficult as there are taxes to be paid on the building. “I don’t want this [the mortgage] to run forever,” she said. The purpose of HACA is to serve the community at large, not to own property.
The building is a perfect site for the Food Closet which serves all of the Town of Hoosick and provides extra food to at least 250 families every month. Outside there is plenty of parking and inside there is ample space to store all the food. The building is handicapped accessible, which is another asset.
“The generosity of food contributions through the holiday season was outstanding,” said Hosterman. The Christmas baskets were generously filled. “Grand Union employees had the option of receiving a turkey for themselves or donating that turkey to the Food Closet. We received six of those turkeys,” she said. The toys offered by the North Hoosick Fire Department to needy families helped ease the burden for HACA to provide them.
Last year the Food Closet saw a 20% increase in families needing food. Hosterman anticipates an increase again this year.
HACA is more than a Food Closet, said Hosterman. They are already gearing up to offer their successful VITA tax service again this year. The free tax service is offered to low and middle income families and individuals who earn up to $40,000. Starting the end of January they will be open on Thursdays from 6 to 9 pm and Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm. People are advised to call 686-5310 for an appointment.
In addition to these programs, Hosterman’s focus will be on working with a campaign organizer to see that her dream of paying off the HACA building quickly becomes a reality.