ALPENA — The All Saints Center of Charity has been raising funds to secure a $75,000 matching grant from the Besser Foundation, and the deadline has been extended to April 1, according to Christina Kihn, Center of Charity director.

The original deadline was Dec. 15.

“We are so grateful to the Besser Foundation for extending the deadline,” Kihn said.

Many generous donors have contributed, including a $20,000 donation from the Knights of Columbus Council 529 of Alpena. The Knights of Columbus then offered another $5,000 match, which was met with several donations, including a $3,000 gift from Hunters Harvest for Charity.

“We’re extremely grateful to the Knights of Columbus for their $20,000, and the matching $5,000,” Kihn said. “We’re also extremely grateful to Hunters Harvest, the Catholic women’s group, Banner Realty, HPC Credit Union, and for all those who gave anonymously. We received a few large anonymous donations. We are extremely humbled by Alpena’s generosity.”

“Every dollar raised helps our mission to support those who are underserved, homeless or who have barriers that are difficult to navigate,” a Center of Charity Facebook post said.

The Center of Charity provides the following services to the community: Meals served six days a week through the Friendship Room; a compassionate, safe space for individuals and famillies to get the care and support they need; resources available through a hub of local partners; and helping guests navigate their difficult situations while aiding them to get back on their feet again.

“We help those within the community who have needs that have not been met,” Kihn explained, adding that those needs include meals, companionship, and help with housing issues and homelessness. “We appreciate Alpena so very much for allowing us to help those who are in need. We are thankful for NEMCSA (Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency), Catholic Human Services, St. Vincent de Paul, and the Salvation Army for partnering with us.”

To donate to the campaign, go online to charityalpenacatholics.org, or mail or drop off check or cash donations to All Saints Parish, 817 Sable St., Alpena MI 49707. Make checks payable to All Saints Parish, with “Center of Charity” in the memo line.

If you have questions, call 989-884-1060.