Collaborative Corner on the Move

By Jeannie Pederson, Pope County Initiative Coordinator

In this season of love, gratitude, giving, compassion and remembrances, the Armful of Love committee members are very grateful for the continued support of the program for families experiencing stressors, especially this time of year.

They benefited from the generosity of community members in the Minnewaska Area Schools, Glacial Hills Elementary School, Western Prairie Human Services, Horizon Public Health, congregations, organizations, businesses, all those who adopted families and the Glacial Ridge Emergency Services through their Toy Drive while the crew gave of their time to also help on distribution day which is so appreciated.

Gifts were provided for 264 children with 103 families receiving food packages through our partnership with Tom’s Market.

We are so grateful to Sacred Heart Catholic Church members for hosting Armful of Love distribution. Our committee all felt the true spirit of giving, thankfulness and love from all who entered our workshop and appreciated the wonderful meals to help sustain our energy through the long days. They, along with Glenwood Lutheran Church and Glenwood United Parish members, carried on the tradition of reaching out to families at Christmas time. Their generosity was expressed through gifts and monetary donations which helped provide gifts and a Christmas meal with other groceries. Thanks to everyone along with Armful of Love committee members, Mary Walsh, Karen Thompson, Mary Kuhn, Marlene Altendahl and Jane Mandershied.

Best wishes to all for a very special holiday season with your families and friends!

As we wish the season could extend throughout the year(s) and fill our homes with joy, our hearts with love and our lives with laughter, there are so many who are remembering those they have lost.

Elizabeth Edwards wrote: “If you know someone who has lost a loved one and you’re afraid to mention them because you think you might make them sad by reminding them that they died—you’re not reminding them. They didn’t forget they died. What you’re reminding them of is that you remembered that they lived, and –that is a great gift.”

I believe her words to be true as even after 13 years, hearing my son’s name, Andrew, touches my heart. I’m sure there are others who believe the same of those they love.