The Caring Center

The Caring Center is a nonprofit social services organization located at 210 First Avenue in Sterling, Illinois, that provides free and low-cost clothing, household items, toys, books, and other goods to community members in need. Founded about 25 years ago by members of Science Ridge Mennonite Church, the organization operates with community donations and a volunteer staff of approximately 20 people, serving thousands of customers annually with items available during shopping hours Monday through Wednesday. The center has become a vital community resource, distributing nearly 200,000 items to over 14,000 customers in a single year and operating in a recycled space that was formerly part of Kline’s Department Store.