Debbie Sanford and Marie Wilson showcasing outfits from Loving Hearts during the fashion show.
The donations included for the raffles and silent auction were carried over from last year. Manager Mary Newpower said they intentionally did not ask for more donations because the last year was so financially challenging.
Barb Reynolds wearing a multi-colored fleece onesie complete with blanket and teddy bear.
Seeley Lake third grader Ajalynn Searcy in a floral themed pixie dress. All youth models could keep their outfits.
SEELEY LAKE – “Last summer I was bringing in some donations when two soot-stained forest firefighters knocked on the door. They were from Arizona and no one had told them nights get cold in Montana,” said Loving Hearts volunteer Margaret Sandor laughing as she added she sent them off with a bunch of jackets to share with their crew. “We keep sweatshirts and long underwear out on the sales floor year round for campers that make that realization too.”
This is just one of the many blessings from the Loving Hearts ministry that volunteers shared at the annual Fashion Show Aug. 25. The event was a time of reflection and celebration for all the donations that bless others in countless ways.
Because of the Rice Ridge fire last year, the Fashion Show was canceled. Manager Mary Newpower decided to take last year’s donations and use them at this year’s event, instead of asking the community for more.
“We are thankful for the community support and will not be shy about asking for help next year,” said Newpower.
In 2017, Loving Hearts donated $9,295.12 back to the community. So far in 2018, they have given $13,174.05 to area individuals and organizations. Sandor said that they estimate $125,000 has been given back to the community since Loving Hearts began.
Sandor emphasized that this is just the monetary return back to the community. The donations that are redistributed including cell phones and eye glasses and the intangible support including prayers, warm smiles and hugs are not tallied.
“Personally I would like to say thank you. We couldn’t be where we are without the fantastic [volunteers] who are here whenever we ask,” said Loving Hearts Manager Mary Newpower. “We couldn’t have this ministry without the wonderful women who started this 20 years ago. I’m blessed to be able to continue their ministry.”
In addition to the $2,793 raised through the Seeley Lake Community Foundation’s Change Your Pace Challenge, the Fashion Show raised $1,100 to continue their mission of service to the individuals and organizations in the area.
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