
Members of WACOM (Women’s Auxiliary of the Commissioned Officer’s Mess) gathered at the California Welcome Center on China Lake Blvd., for their semi-annual fund distribution luncheon on Tuesday, November 8th.
WACOM operates the Thrift Shop at NAWS China Lake and proceeds are distributed semi-annually to the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society and other community organizations.
WACOM was honored to present Sonya Akintonde, Navy Marine Corps Relief Society Ventura Site Director, with a semi-annual check in the amount of $16,320.
In addition to NMCRS, the following organizations have received funding to assist in their work that benefits our community: Burroughs Music Boosters, Burroughs Boys Varsity Basketball, China Lake Museum Foundation, Community in Action Partnership of Kern County, Friends of the Ridgecrest Library, Hi Desert Quilt Guild, Hospital Corpsman Association, Marine Aviation Detachment, NAWS China Lake Religious Military Team, NAWS China Lake Officers Club, Ridgecrest Military Banners Program, Rotary Club of Indian Wells Valley, The Salvation Army-Ridgecrest and USNSCC Sidewinder Squadron.
Thanks to so many generous donations and loyal volunteers, the WACOM Thrift Shop has been able to raise $32,000 over the past six months. WACOM continues to donate 51% to the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society and 39% to nonprofit organizations in our community, while retaining only 10% for operating expenses.
Distribution to nonprofit organizations is decided through an application process, and members vote on who will receive the funds. You can find the application on our Facebook page “WACOM Thrift Shop”. Click on the “Contact Us” link.