What is Wellspring of Greenbrier County?
It is hard to believe that Wellspring existed for two years in the automobile of Fred and Scarlett Kellerman, the founders and directors of this organization. I met Fred and Scarlett last Christmas when I volunteered to Adopt-A-Family for Christmas at the Lewisburg United Methodist Church. The Kellermans and I met at WalMart since there was a mix up and I didn’t have the family’s Christmas list. We immediately started shopping for the items on the list. The family asked for newborn clothes/items since there would be a new arrival in February. We found the infant car seat, clothes, diapers, etc and then started shopping for the two-year old girl. The adults did not ask for anything for themselves just items for the kids. It was fun and after an hour, the task was completed. It was indeed an honor to help the Kellermans and Wellspring, and especially the family that wanted to give their children a Christmas. So glad that I was able to give and plan to do so every year for those in need.
So what exactly is Wellspring….
Wellspring of Greenbrier, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit corporation assisting the homeless, poor, transient and disadvantaged people of Greenbrier County. For two years Fred and Scarlett Kellerman helped people in need from their automobile. Then, on September 30, 2006, they moved into their present center in Rupert, WV located next to the Rupert City Hall in an old two story building containing seven low-income apartments on the 2nd floor and the Wellspring Center on the ground floor from which 28 programs are administered throughout the year.
The center includes a welcome station, large social area, data office, children's space, laundry area, handicap accessible bathrooms with shower, fully equipped kitchen, prayer room and guest office. There is also a large warehouse space and workshop to accommodate tools and equipment.
The corporation depends on donations from individuals, churches, organizations and grants from several private foundations for funding. As an all volunteer entity with no payroll, Wellspring is able to funnel significant portions of collected funds into its various social programs.
One of the most significant of these programs is the “Bread and Soup Express” which provides prepared meals three days each week to over 200 families. Approximately 1200 meals are served per month.
Also, of significance is the “Share the Warmth” program which assists people with heating bills during the winter months. During the winter of 2013-14, over $13,000. in bills (electric, coal, wood, propane, heating oil, kerosene) was paid out. In addition, 28 motel rooms were rented to provide temporary shelter in emergency situations.
Another program offers home repairs during the spring/summer months to low-income residents who need assistance with roofs, windows, insulation, porches, ramps, painting, etc. During the past year 24 work teams from all over the county came to offer help. Other programs, such as “Adopt-A-Family” at Christmas; the “Krazy Kloset Days” where clothes are given away; the “Book Bonanza” free book exchange; and the collection and free distribution of appliances are among some of the other work projects at Wellspring.
"Wellspring" means "eternal source" and is often used as a metaphor for God, as in "God, the wellspring of life."
Wellspring VISION
To create a non-judgmental environment where disadvantaged people who live on "the edge" might receive assistance through emotional, monetary and/or physical support to improve their circumstances.
Wellspring TARGET
Those persons who find themselves among the working poor, homeless and/or transients within the boundaries of Greenbrier County.
Wellspring GOAL
To raise awareness of all citizenry as to the plight of those in need, and to enlist support for assistance through the generous giving of time, talent and money.
Wellspring INSPIRATION
"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink...truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these...you did it to me." Matthew 25:35-40
The Kellermans and all the volunteers give generously of their time, talent and money. If you would like to help, please call
Wellspring of Greenbrier, Inc
524 Nicholas St.,
Rupert, WV 25984
(304) 392-2095
Wellspring of Greenbrier County, a non-profit organization, is brought to you by Rebecca Gaujot, Realtor®. Please check with the organization at the above number for any additional information. When you have a real estate need in Lewisburg, WV contact Rebecca at 304-520-2133.
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