Volunteers from the Shelby County Democratic Party and Harris Pride #437, Order of Eastern Star, joined forces on Sunday afternoon, January 29, to collect items to help Shelby residents who struggle to stay warm in these wet, chilly days of winter.
A steady parade of donors braved a cold rain on that Sunday to deliver their goods to the collection site at the Shelby County Services Building in Pelham. These generous citizens brought new or gently worn men’s and women’s coats, jackets, children’s winter wear of all types, hoodies, raincoats, gloves, hats, scarves, new underwear and socks, plus blankets and even handmade quilts.
This bounty of comfort was sorted and packaged by volunteers from the two sponsoring groups, and delivered to several non-profit agencies who help people in need county-wide and year-round. Because of the big hearts and open wallets of Democrats and Eastern Star members, many people in Shelby County are warmer now.
“Caring for Shelby Countians is a community, non-partisan effort,” according to Teresa Stafford, leader of the Harris Pride group. Democratic Party Chair Marsha Sturdevant added, “Democracy thrives when we take care of each other.” Both these worthy groups organize regular public service projects to benefit the people of the county. For information on past and future activities of local Democrats, visit this website: shelbycountydems.com. To contact Harris Pride #437, OES, use this email: harrispride437@gmail.com.