Dear Neighbors,
For many of us, the holiday season is a time for us to spend time with family, exchange presents, and count the many blessings in our lives. For those facing or at risk for homelessness however, the holiday times can be especially challenging. Colder weather brings new challenges just to stay warm. Snow makes it difficult to travel to a food shelf or shelter to get a warm meal or a safe place to stay.
Looking back, I now realize how close I came to facing these same challenges. But for the support of friends and a couple who took me in while I finished high school, I was likely one or two adverse life events away from being on the street.
On Friday, December 15 I will be hosting a day-long drive to collect coats, blankets, mittens, and food to help those need a hand this holiday and Christmas season. Volunteers will camp outside from 6AM-6PM in the Elden's Food Fair parking lot in Alexandria (707 3rd Ave E, Alexandria, MN 56308) to help raise awareness about those facing or at risk of homelessness, and all of the proceeds will be donated to the United Way and the Outreach Food Shelf.
If you have new or gently-used items or non-perishable food items that could help another family, I hope you'll consider stopping by. Your donation or volunteer work can help make a difference for a family in our community—if you can't stop by this event, please look for other opportunities to give back to others so we can all share in the joy of the Christmas season.
Stay In Touch:
If you ever have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding any issue related to state government, please feel free to contact me at either 651-296-3201 or rep.mary.franson@house.mn. I would love to hear from you.
Sincerely,
Mary