Together we can make a difference.

CAC Directors

OUR STORY begins in December of 1983. A small group of concerned Ellis County residents established the Referred Collective Distribution Center (RCDC) to coordinate the distribution of food, toys, and other items to lower income families at Christmas. The response was overwhelming, showing both the need for such an organization and the willingness of the community to support it. The RCDC then filed to become an incorporated, nonprofit organization. In May, 1984, the RCDC changed its name to Community Assistance Center (CAC) and moved to its present facility at 1108 Oak Street, Hays, Kansas. It became the centralized distribution center for food, clothing, and household items for those in need in Ellis County. The CAC has never received support from a federal, state, or county agency. Operations are completely funded by charitable contributions from the community at large.

Today, the CAC STAFF consists of a salaried director and an assistant. Policies are governed by a board of directors.

The FOOD PANTRY is replenished by food and cash donations, and by two major, county-wide food drives each year. The first, in May, is conducted by the United Postal Service Mail Carriers. The second, Trick or Treat so Others Can Eat , is in mid-October and sponsored by the DECA Club of Hays High School. Other clubs and organizations conduct smaller drives throughout the year.

GARAGE SALES, open to the public, are held on the first and third Tuesday of the month, from 8-11am. The money from these sales helps with operating expenses. An added benefit is that they provide an economical source of clothing and household items for the community at large.

SCHOLARSHIPS. The CAC has established two scholarships in honor of the leadership and volunteer hours given by early directors.

  • The Boon-Taggart Scholarship at Fort Hays State University supports students who are graduates of Ellis County High Schools and are single parents. To apply contact the FHSU Scholarship office: 785-628-4408, fhsu.academicworks.com
  • The Clara & Archie Walters Scholarship at NCKTech supports any student who is a graduate of an Ellis County High School and enrolled in any program on the Hays campus.To apply contact the NCKTech Foundation Office: 785/738-9090, nckt.edu