On May 15, over 50 people met at the Lakewood Town Hall to share a meal and celebrate the formal introduction of Northwoods Community Assistance Coalition (NCAC).
NCAC is a group of local volunteers and health care providers in Wabeno, Townsend, Lakewood, Mountain, Suring and White Lake with the goal of helping those in need. The foundation for this group was laid over four years ago in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
Into the void stepped a cadre of volunteers in northern Oconto County. Led by Lakewood Nurse Practitioner Peggy Christianson, their efforts reached multiple communities. They made over 8,000 cloth masks, some of which were shipped as far away as Saudi Arabia. They delivered meals, provided transportation, and furnished whatever they could to support those in need.
NCAC has expanded its reach, drawn in more and more volunteers, and relied on the generosity of locals who contributed badly needed funding. They continue to provide meals, rides, and temporary financial assistance in emergencies. They built wheelchair ramps, installed handrails, and loaned medical equipment to facilitate safe mobility. Some mobilized an effort to adopt local restaurants, purchasing take-out meals and buying gift certificates that would provide critical income during those dark days.
The NCAC is in the process of becoming a 501(c)(3) which is essential to securing grants to further its mission. The group has lofty goals with bigger projects in the planning and development stage.
Volunteer forms are currently available at Bellin and North Lakes clinics in Lakewood, by email at ncac4u@gmail.com, or by visiting Northwoods Community Assistance Coalition on Facebook.
