Monday, May 15, 2017

A Special Post: J.O.S.H - Just Our Soldiers' Helpers, Inc.


This is a special blog that tells what our community has been working on and why since November 2016. I started a group of "crafters" in our park and wanted something that everyone could be involved with through the winter months with everyone here yet give us something to do for those that are here year around. I decided we could make mats from grocery bags to be used by our military troops overseas. That would involve everyone in the community.

The results were way more then I expected. I thought 15 mats would be a reasonable goal. I was amazed that we reached that goal in a month. People would bring grocery bags to the clubhouse, some people would cut and make strips, then ball them up. The crocheters would take these balls and crochet the mats. Thursday is craft day here in the park, when several people would come and either cut, strip or crochet. We had a good time plus we'd get a lot done in a couple hours. Following are some pictures of the group and the various stages of the process, including some of the completed mats. (Click on the pictures to enlarge).




























































The gathering place was our second bedroom.




Saturday, May 14, 2017 Jim and I loaded all 59 mats in the car and took them to J.O.S.H. (Just Our Soldiers Helpers, Inc.) in Lake Mary, Fl. Our friend Donna went along with us. (The quilts will be taken later to the VA Hospital.)


Kathy and her husband Dennis are the organizers for J.O.S.H. They have a website with all the details about what they do.

Just our Soldiers' Helpers, Inc. 

We saw how Kathy and her group prepare the care packages for our troops with personal items and healthy foods. The mats will be used as shower mats, and floor mats in tents and other places. They're easily cleaned and dirt can be shaken out.

Kathy's living room is filled with boxes ready to ship. They send 100 boxes a month, or more when they can.

They had lots of girl scout cookies to send.


Boxes on the left are ready for the post office.


Kathy (center) explaining the process to Donna and Dee.


Kathy showing us how the boxes are packed.


Some of the items.






Donna, Kathy, and Dee


The reaction from Kathy tells it all.


We had a feeling of happiness that we could do just a small part in helping our military.  Please check the website and help any way you can. We need to take care of the guys and gals that take care of us. They put their lives on the line in pretty harsh conditions and they really love getting care packages from home.

Thanks.

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