The Community Resource Center of Chattooga is turning to the community for help replacing an aging roof that leaders say has reached the end of its lifespan and could threaten services relied upon by thousands of local families.

The center, located at 50 Eleanor Avenue, has dealt with years of patchwork roof repairs. Now, Executive Director and volunteers say a complete replacement is needed to protect the building and the programs operating inside.

The Community Resource Center provides a number of services to Chattooga County residents, including its food pantry, emergency assistance, senior outreach and community education programs.

“This roof doesn’t just cover a building,” the organization said in announcing the effort. “It protects the people, the food, the volunteers, and the hope that come through our doors every day.”

The fundraising effort received a major boost from Atrium Health Floyd, which has committed $130,000 in matching funds. However, the Community Resource Center must raise another $130,000 to unlock the full match.

If the fundraising goal is reached, the combined money will allow the center to replace the roof and address related structural needs without interrupting services.

Center leaders say the matching opportunity means every contribution can have twice the impact. Donations of any size will be matched dollar-for-dollar until the fundraising goal is reached.

The Community Resource Center has become one of Chattooga County’s most relied-upon nonprofit organizations, distributing food each week, coordinating volunteer efforts and providing a point of contact for families experiencing financial hardship. According to the organization, demand for assistance has continued to grow, increasing the urgency of protecting the facility.

Volunteers describe the building as the “heart of the operation” and say even a temporary closure could disrupt food distribution and other outreach programs.

Donations can be made online at feedchattooga.com. Community members can also contact the Community Resource Center directly for information about donations, sponsorship opportunities or group fundraising efforts.