We’ve been the recipient of our fair share of good deeds lately and wanted to make sure others knew about them, too.

First, our thanks to 8-year old Rachel Turkington, a student at Haynes Elementary School, who graciously asked her friends to forgo bringing gifts to her June birthday party and instead collected backpacks and schools supplies for our annual fall drive. We’ll take the supplies over to the children at Sandra’s Lodge and Mary’s Place, two local family shelters, next month. (The drive officially begins on August 13. Items can be dropped off at Goodnow Library, The Flynn Building and The Grange Hall through September.)

Next, thanks to the great children and families who participated in Vacation Bible Adventure (VBA) Camp at First Baptist Church in Sudbury in July. They collected money during the week-long camp by doing chores, hosting neighborhood bake sales, etc. and donated the proceeds – more than $600 – to HOPEsudbury. A friendly competition between the boys and girls upped the fundraising ante — all for a good cause! Special thanks to VBA Director Sherri Martinelli and Pastor Jay Ridenour for highlighting the “Power of Community” with this generous donation to HOPEsudbury.

Finally, thanks go to our own Carole Ann Baer, a HOPEsudbury founding board member, who each year coordinates one of our favorite programs, The Comfort Basket Project. Using funds raised through our annual appeal and Telethon & Auction, Carole Ann recently shopped for a treasure trove of household items and supplies, which she then delivered to families living at Bethany Hill School in Framingham. Bethany Hill is a supportive community that provides independent, affordable housing and educational opportunities to low-income residents facing personal challenges.

We are grateful to all.

Tracy Stewart & Marilyn Martino

HOPEsudbury co-presidents