One of the main purposes of Relief Society is just that – to give relief. We try to lift up, encourage, and lighten a load. We mourn with those that mourn, give comfort to those in need of comfort.
Our ward Relief Society has been very active in doing service projects to help women and girls in our small community. As much as we wish things didn’t happen to women – abuse, drugs, prostitution – the fact is they do. And chances are someone you know either has been or will be affected by it. The two latest service projects done by the Relief Society combined with the Young Women and Achievement Day Girls in our ward have tried in some way to let those women and girls in our community know we care. Maybe it help give you ideas on how to serve right in your own community?
The first project was to help those teen girls who find themselves suddenly in foster care. We were told by those who help run the services that many are taken from their homes in the middle of the night {during a drug bust or worse} with whatever they are wearing and that is all. They have no time to gather any of their own items.
We gathered supplies and made these grab ‘n’ go kits that are given to those girls to help them get a new start.
Fleece blankets were tied together.
Hygiene kits were put together containing essentials {soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrushes, feminine products} but also nail polish, hair accessories, etc to an added boost.
One-size flannel drawstring pajama bottoms were sewn. As well as the hobo bags that everything was put into. The bags are reversible and make a great school bag or purse.
Other items included were notebooks, pens, and other school supplies. It was a very fun evening as women of all ages from 8 up to 80 gathered together to serve.
The second project was for the local domestic violence shelter. Too many times women are victims of domestic violence and need protection from their perpetrators. This is where safe houses – known only to the police – come in.
We were told our local safe house was in need of essentials – kitchen towels, baking ware, hygiene products, bedding, etc.
We gathered again as women and sisters to provide what we could to be used by those who need them.
Again, it was an evening filled with love.
“You pass the heritage along as you help others receive the gift of charity in their hearts. They will then be able to pass it to others. The history of Relief Society is recorded in words and numbers, but the heritage is passed heart to heart.” (Henry B. Eyring, The Enduring Legacy of Relief Society)
Now is the time to share your stories of Relief Society! Link as many posts as you want, written recently or years ago, that tell something about Relief Society.
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As a former domestic violence counselor I can assure you that there isn’t a women’s shelter around that isn’t always in need of the “essentials” you mentioned. This is definitely a project any Relief Society in the U.S. could take on to benefit our sisters in the community. Thanks for sharing the idea!
How are the fleece blankets made that you show in this post? they look great
I think the day you described is awesome! So much can get accomplished while sharing with one another. I really enjoyed hearing about this event.
I loved your post thank you for sharing! Do you happen to have the pattern/directions for the hobo bags and the drawstring pants? If you have them and could pass them along it would be greatly appreciated! Thanks again!
The hobo bags were made from this Lickety Split Bag pattern. It is $6 and well worth the price! We’ve used it a TON for church bags, purses, market bags, etc. For this project women donated two yards of coordinating fabric (one yard of each fabric) to make each bag.These are super easy to make!
I’m not sure what pattern was used for the drawstring pants but found these Drawstring Pants from Martha Stewart (scroll down on that page) or this Sewing 101 free project from Simplicity.
Good luck with the project!
Where did you get all of your supplies for the hygiene kits and other projects? Donations by ward members? These are some great ideas! Thanks for sharing:)
Yes, ALL of the supplies were donated by the Activity Day girls, Young Women, and Relief Society sisters – from the items in the hygiene kits to the fleece to the bags. The Activity Day girls earned their money doing odd jobs so they could purchase the items they wished to donate. Many that couldn’t make it that night donated supplies so they could still be a part of the project.