Question 1

What is Blue Skies Mutual Aid?

Accepted Answer

Blue Skies Mutual Aid is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that exists to provide programs and services to those in need. Our ultimate goal is to end poverty in Gaines County, Texas by creating a mutual aid network that provides for the needs of those in our community. We also serve Andrews, Dawson, Terry, and Yoakum counties.

We are made up of volunteers and staff that live and work in this 'Blue Skies' region. Our team includes people from all walks of life and all ages — young adults to grandparents, and English, German, and Spanish speakers.

Question 2

What's the difference between mutual aid and charity?

Accepted Answer

A mutual aid organization is run by locals who live in the community they serve and are often clients of the same services they provide to others. Mutual aid groups also do not discriminate as to who receives assistance. They are more accountable to their community, more democratically run, and more responsive to local needs than charities.

In contrast, charity is often when an 'outside' group gives aid only to those who meet certain requirements like residency, age, religion, or income. It's organized 'top-down,' volunteers and staff have little say in operations, and help often comes with strings attached.

Question 3

Does BSMA discriminate against certain populations?

Accepted Answer

BSMA is committed to equal treatment and opportunity for all of our clients and volunteers without regard to age, ancestry, disability, national or ethnic origin, race, native language, religion, marital, veteran, or immigration status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, or any other protected status.

Question 4

What area does Blue Skies serve?

Accepted Answer

We're based in Gaines County, Texas, but we serve Gaines, Andrews, Dawson, Terry, and Yoakum counties. We call our service area the 'Blue Skies' region, in contrast to Lubbock (South Plains) and the Odessa–Midland (Permian Basin) regions. Historically the Blue Skies region has had very limited resources from outside, so Blue Skies took it upon themselves to make our area as self-sufficient as possible.

Question 5

What does BSMA currently offer for assistance?

Accepted Answer

We offer a wide range of programs and services. Currently we can help with free food boxes, hygiene boxes, and baby boxes — including baby formula. We also offer large home goods like donated appliances and furniture, a medical device lending program, laptop lending, and referrals to other nonprofit or government organizations.

Question 6

Is Blue Skies involved in any politics?

Accepted Answer

The organization has never and will never be involved in any politics or elections at any level of government. Blue Skies Mutual Aid, Inc. does not engage in political campaigning, lobbying, or political fundraising of any kind. We work with a passion for helping everyone simply because it's the right thing to do in recognition of our shared humanity.

Question 7

How do I inquire about volunteering with Blue Skies?

Accepted Answer

Anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to email operations@blueskiesma.com anytime. For current volunteers, the same email address can be used for any human resources or volunteering questions as well.

Question 8

How does Blue Skies work with faith-based organizations?

Accepted Answer

Many churches and other faith-based organizations improve our local community through food distribution, funeral cost sharing, volunteering, fundraising, and other services. Blue Skies is a secular organization but is fully willing to partner with any faith-based organizations that want to do good for those in need.

There is still a void in the community when it concerns certain social services such as finding a place for someone to sleep. Some faith-based organizations also discriminate as to who may receive their assistance — most commonly only helping church members and/or those of the Christian faith. Blue Skies serves everyone without exception regardless of religion, income level, or citizenship status.

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