Below are some things that Ann Carlson wanted to share with the community and see if, collectively, we can bring more warmth to the season.
1. Dignity Center Christmas Party: Every year at Christmas time, the Dignity Center plans a sumptuous Christmas party for our clients. We have a wonderful meal, provide entertainment and a $20 gift card to Target for 75 clients. In addition, a photographer takes a photo of each client. Many Dignity Center clients do not have a caring community that provides gifts or parties. The Dignity Center wants to be that caring community, but needs help from the wider community to purchase the gift cards and pay for the holiday party. Can you help? If you can, please write a check to “The Dignity Center and direct it to Ann Carlson’s mail box. Thanks so much.
2. Other Needs: This is the time of year when everyone needs warm winter clothing in order to survive the Minnesota Winter. Dignity Center clients, who are mostly adult men, need warm jackets, hats, gloves and scarves. If anyone would like to donate any of these items, they may bring them to Hennepin Church and leave them with the Church Receptionist, who will see that they get directed to the right place. ( We’ve found that Menards has the best prices on ski type gloves and knitted caps.)
3. Memorial Services honoring homeless people who have died in 2010: Every year, Simpson Housing Services sponsors a service of remembrance at Simpson United Methodist Church to honor the homeless people who have died. This year the service will be held on Thursday December 16 at 6:30 at Simpson United Methodist Church. A community meal will follow downstairs in Simpson Shelter. In 2010, two of our Dignity Center clients died: Wayne Harris and Michael Fonta. It is particularly fitting that people join together to honor these folks. I hope folks will consider taking a few hours to go to Simpson Church for the service and meal. I’ll be there!