Pam Honeychurch and I visited the Bethany House Academy Pre-school on November 14th to continue interviewing the children for SUMC’s Christmas gift outreach. Miss M, who oversees the preschool, was trying to fix the zipper of a little girl’s coat. I then tried to fix it. It became evident that the extremely worn coat could not be repaired.  

After learning that some preschoolers do not come in extreme weather due to the lack of adequate outerwear and that a church that had provided coats in the past has not done so for some years, I decided to ask for gently worn coats via several Facebook pages; Pam was going to publish the need in November 17th’s announcement.

Just a few hours after I posted to my neighborhood’s Facebook page, a “neighbor” messaged me that his company would donate $900 to buy the 18 coats, along with mittens/gloves and hats! I did have others express interest in either buying a few coats or donating some gently used ones.

In a world that seems so divided and full of negativism, I had actually asked God just last week for some positive sign. I feel that I got that sign! I am beyond grateful to my “neighbor” and to God for providing these little children with winter gear.  

PS – Due to coupons, online coupon codes, and other savings, there are funds remaining that will be used for other needs at Bethany House Academy preschool.

Martha Boward, Outreach Chair

Photo by Bryan Bruchman