Speech at Shallowford Presbyterian

Today was the day of our speech at Shallowford Presbyterian.  Nerves! Before Sunday Mass, we went to the Apostles third grade class to speak to them about Bountiful Bags.  The students were very attentive and asked such wonderful questions!  After the visit, Rev. Henry seated us in the front pew and gave us instructions on when to go up on the stage.  Caitlin lost her voice and was just beginning to get it back, so Diana did the speech.  Diana was very nervous, but made it through the speech with a couple of fumbles.

After Mass, we greeted the congregation at the exit doors.  We met some more wonderful people and everyone was so supportive of the program.  Who would have thought that in just a few months, Bountiful Bags would be growing like it is? We can't say enough thank yous to everyone who has helped, guided, supported, and encouraged us!

First Early Packing

We started the packing at 5pm today.  It was wonderful seeing everyone come out.  In addition to volunteers from the churches, we had a few teachers come out...the Nykamps, A. Williams, C. Eason, and J. McMillan.  Our Assistant Principal, Mr. Brown, came after the packing and helped us to take and unload the bags at the school.  Once again, a successful packing! :)

Knit Caps

We also received 100 knit caps from Dil.  She had great timing because it was so cold today!  The students were very happy to have something warm on their heads as they were going home.  Thanks, Dil!

 

The Show Must Go ON!!

As we were setting up the tables and distributing the food to the various containers for packing, there was a loud crash, and the lights went out!!  There was complete darkness in that room.  Within a few seconds of going into darkness, people started to use their cell phones to continue distributing the food, while others ran to their cars to find flashlights and Rev. George went to find candles.  

Candlelit topshelf

Flashlights and candles :)

We learned as volunteers continued to show up that the electricity was out within a mile radius or so of the church.  Even without power, people showed up to help.  Amazingly, we packed bags with candlelight.  It was a beautiful and touching sight!  To have so many people show their love and support for this program...there are no words to express our gratitude.

LAUNCH DAY!!

Before coming today, we were nervous.  We did not know if we would have enough volunteers.  The volunteer sign up sheet had four slots.  All four slots were filled.  We both came to Memorial Presbyterian around 6:30pm to find the parking full of cars.  When we entered the gymnasium, we were blown away!!  Over 40 people volunteered their time to help us officially launch Bountiful Bags.  It was absolutely amazing!  

Wonderful volunteers packing!

More packing!

Doris with some of the completed packed bags :)

In addition to having a successful launch day, Rev. George informed us that there were several families who had generously donated money to Bountiful Bags over the holidays.  From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank everyone who came to help us today in person and in spirit :)

Bountiful Bags are a GO!!

  

After three months of organizing, we are so proud to say that the Bountiful Bags pantry is stocked and ready for the first official packing tomorrow, Thursday, January 5, 2012 at 7:00pm in the gymnasium at Memorial Presbyterian Church.  Yay!!

Warm, winter clothes

Dil, from Memorial Presbyterian, has helped get more coats and winter clothes donated for our students!  We have found that during the winter, students are very lacking in warm clothing.  The clothes that Dil continues to help get for us will help more of our students stay warm this winter! Thank you, Dil.