The Community Cares List is providing a new avenue for Sunflower Diversified Services to keep the lines of communication open with its supporters.

            Now, those who visit Sunflower’s Facebook page can review a list of needs in many departments at the non-profit agency that serves people with special needs.

            “During this pandemic, we want to sustain awareness about the people we serve and keep the community posted about their needs,” said Connie Oetken, director of development. “This is a safe way to let the community know about some specific needs throughout our agency.

            “Since we cannot host in-person fundraising/awareness events right now, we thought this would give central Kansans an opportunity to keep in touch with all of us.”

            The list was first posted earlier this summer and responses have continued to increase to meet the needs of children and adults.

            While these needs are varied, items posted on the Sunflower Facebook page have included: medical face shields; adult CPR manikins; cartridge sets; noun and verb cards; emotion cards; edu-trays; and liquid watercolor lanterns.

            “Our generous supporters have sent funds to purchase some of these items and we are receiving lots of phone calls,” Oetken said. “In many cases, the cost is minimal but a few have higher price tags.

            “Items are added to the Community Cares List as needs arise,” she added. “We encourage our regular supporters and those who are curious about Sunflower to visit our Facebook page. Even though we can’t meet as a group for the time being, this is one way you can help the children and adults we serve right now.”

            Sunflower serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 54th year.