by Judy Sandeen
What a wonderful experience it was for those took part in the 6-week study program and actually got involved with the projects selected for our 40 Days of Community. They became aware of the tremendous needs of the community and learned that we at Zion can make a difference.
- Several of the small groups helped with the preparing of 180 Easter food bags for the Food Shelf. One group prepared and sold granola at church with all proceeds going to the food shelf.
- Many were involved with Park View Care Center by helping with bingo, preparing valentine bags of treats for residence at Park Lane Apartments, and distributing flowers to veterans and cards to their spouses.
- A total of five suppers were prepared for the Timber Bay youth.
- A group helped the J.O.Y. Center by collecting craft and cleaning supplies, a Cub gift card, and assembling scrapbook kits for parents and children to work on together.
- Many cases of diapers were collected and delivered to Love INC Heartland in Delano.
- Fourteen boxes of treats and goodies were prepared and sent to our Zion military men and women who are actively serving our country.
- Some groups visited shut-ins, served as greeters, or sent cards and/or plants to various Zion members whose hard work and efforts often go unrecognized.
Future plans are to continue many of the existing projects and expand current efforts. Others are planning on painting Sunday school rooms, making meals for Food for Friends, cleaning and organizing the church kitchen, cleaning up the grounds around the Buffalo Public Library, visiting an elder lady to help with spring cleaning projects and share a meal.
The entire 40 Days of Community has been a win-win event. The community has reaped the benefits of our labors of love as Zion turned itself inside out. We at Zion have been blessed by the joy of God’s love showered down upon us as we have made lasting friendships with fellow Zion members and seen the true appreciation of our efforts in the faces or the recipients.
What a wonderful feeling!
