Making Spirits Bright

December 20, 2024

Making Spirits Bright at Madonna Heights SCO Shelter

The Women’s Club of Farmingdale (WCF) has been visiting Madonna Heights Homeless Shelter in Dix Hills at Christmas time for many years. On December 9, Welfare Committee Chairs, Rosemary Emigholz and Judy Vilas, together with several members, President Lynda Leone, Marie Asencio, Tina Diamond, Jill Handley, Anna Ievolo, Maria Ortolani, Cheryl Parisi and Valerie Thieke dropped off over 2 dozen books and stuffed animals donated by club members. The age-appropriate books provide increased exposure to language and reading skills, while the stuffed animals provide comfort and security as they become a cherished friend. A shout-out to Kohl’s for selling beautiful hardcover books and large stuffed animals, which are featured in the books, for $5 each or less in support of this worthy cause.

This residential treatment facility and school is designed specifically for women and young girls to heal and thrive by providing 24-hour care to address the physical, emotional and social needs unique to women and girls, including pregnancy and child care. They build confidence, strengthen family bonds and support the transition back home or to a home in the community. For more information: https://sco.org/featured-programs/madonna-heights/.

“Shut the Door on Hunger,” the WCF’s current community impact program to help combat food insecurity, continues with a great start on Tuesday, December 10, at the Farmingdale Public Library where clubwomen sorted, organized and packed donated food items into recyclable shopping bags. These bags were picked up by Farmingdale School District social workers who will then distribute them to qualifying students to ensure that all children have access to the healthy food they need until schools reopen again. This program will continue whenever schools are closed for customary breaks until the end of the school year. For anyone wishing more information on when and where to donate or for a list of requested items, please contact: tdtd@108@aol.com.

Sleigh bells were ringing on Tuesday, 12/17, when WCF members met at Starkie Bros. Nursery in Farmingdale to work on beautiful ceramic sleighs decorating them with fresh holiday greens. WCF 2nd VP Debbie Podolski and her committee organized this mini-fundraiser with help from member Patti Starkie and her husband Butch, who were on hand to make sure each member created a lovely centerpiece to take home. Raffle prizes and snacks capped off a wonderful evening. Monies raised will become part of the club’s philanthropic donations at the end of the club year.

The Women’s Club of Farmingdale, a local 501-C-3 non-profit organization, is always interested in welcoming new members. For more information, please email: lyndaleone@gmail.com or jude523@aol.com. #IAMGFWC

submitted by Maria Ortolani, Publicity Chair