Club Plays Cupid, Delivers Hundreds of Valentines to Community Organizations
Bonneville County Republican Women member Nan Hancock presented the idea of the club making valentines for seniors and those in need. Club President Beverly Kingsford said, “Let’s go for it!” And they got to work. Nan headed up the project with the support of the executive committee and members.
She called the Haven and Ruth House which is a place for displaced women with children, and single women needing assistance, and the Rescue Mission, a place for men to stay until they get back on their feet. Next, she called Promontory Point, a rehabilitation center, and Lincoln Court, a senior center. They all were thrilled at the prospect of us delivering valentines to the people they served. We needed 350 valentines for all the residents! Over a few short weeks, our wonderful women reached the goal with the help of their grandchildren and husbands.
On Feb. 10, Beverly and Nan went to the senior care centers, the women’s shelters and the rescue mission and gave the valentines to the managers to distribute at those locations (for privacy reasons). The directors were full of gratitude for remembering their people. We had excellent conversations and learned how we could help more in the future. The Men’s Rescue Mission gave us a tour of the facilities. We learned it has a soup kitchen serving about 100 people every evening. Many volunteers were busy preparing a delicious meal for that evening.
On Feb. 11, several members met at the assisted care facility, each taking a basket of valentines. The director was so helpful and loving as she escorted the Bonneville women to the memory center and the residence’s rooms. They knocked and visited with the occupants to give greetings, love, and valentines. They received wonderful receptions and many thank yous. Some asked who we represented and gave us enthusiastic thumbs up and high fives. One man had a certificate of achievement for “Most Charismatic” on his nightstand. Beverly said, “See you later, Mister Charismatic!” He laughed and told us to be sure to come back.
On Feb. 13th, another group of BCRW women went to the soup kitchen, handing out valentine baggies full of goodies to people as they came in the warm room to eat the delicious food prepared by willing volunteers. We had a warm reception and enjoyed their smiling faces. One of the dear ladies helping had a special experience. Her stepbrother walked in, recognized her and gave her a hug. She hadn’t seen him for many years and had wondered how he was doing. She was able to take a picture with him and said it was a godsend.
Some valentines remained and were delivered to more senior residents. The women of the BCRW will always remember these special moments while bringing light and love to those needing to be remembered.