On a cold January day we trudged through the snow and ice to deliver our carefully crafted “Welcome Bags” to the Sojourner Peace Center. Only two days prior, we were sorting toothpastes, shampoo, blankets, and other essentials into mom and child welcome bags. We all loaded up our arms, both moms and tots, carrying the bags into the front office. When we unloaded our last load, our donations filled the entire floor of the office. It was then that we realized how much we had collected. The staff was overwhelmed by the donation and even more so when they discovered all the goodies contained inside each bag.
We then proceeded to tour the building where the families stay after fleeing domestic violence. I was struck by simplicity of the environment in comparison to what I have come to think of as essentials for living. The families that move in here may not have any possessions they bring along. I thought about how important and comforting it would be for them to receive one of the welcome bags we assembled. As we left, the day didn’t feel so cold anymore. It was great to meet the staff and learn more about the Sojourner Family Peace Center.
-Kathleen, mom of Thomas