In December, we began to hand out HUGS (Hats, Umbrellas, Gloves and Scarves) in the Love INC clearinghouse. These HUGS had been donated from churches, restaurants, agencies and organizations. Collection bins were set up at Providence Newberg Hospital and Burgerville restaurant. We received HUGS from NW Medical Team, the Astor House and the Newberg Fire Department. HUGS were brought in from Church of Christ, First Baptist Church, First Presbyterian, First United Methodist, Newberg Friends, Newberg Foursquare and West Chehalem Friends. Community members dropped by the Love INC clearinghouse to share HUGS too. The response has been great! Even greater is the response of mom’s that have walked in the cold to the Love INC clearinghouse. “I can take one for each of my kids?” one mom asked. “This comes at the perfect time” she continued. “My car is out of gas and we have been walking everywhere. The kids get so cold.” “You can pick one out for yourself too” a volunteer replied. Picking up a package with a scarf and gloves in it, she said “this is my favorite color.” As she walked out the door, she turned and said “thanks for the hugs” and she was on her way.
DEC