The “Holiday Open House” on Nov. 17 was a big success. Close to 60 RSVP volunteers braved the windy weather to enjoy special refreshments and door prizes. I want to personally thank all of the following for the generous donations that made our event so special: Great Bend Regional Hospital—cookies; Angels Care Home Health—punch, nuts and paper goods; Yvonne Strecker—cream puffs; Esther Thul—cookies; Deon Lupton—home-made peanut clusters; Kansasland Tires—free oil change; Montana Mikes—$40 gift certificate; Pizza Hut—4 free lunch buffets; Jennifer’s Hallmark—large gift basket of Christmas ornaments; Everything under the Son—candleholder and cross; Perks—large gift basket with coffee and baked goods. A special thanks to Reta Brack for the gorgeous fall decorations for the tables and to Reta, Jim Pitts, Merle Evers, Delilah Winkler, Deon Lupton, and Darlene Mathers, RSVP Advisory Council members who helped with the event. RSVP volunteers give so much to our community. The Open House was just a small thank you for all those volunteer efforts. For those of you that couldn’t be there, we missed you and hope to see you at the annual appreciation banquet this spring.
My Town’s Santa World opened for the holiday season on the day after Thanksgiving. Santa World is a wonderful collection of life-size models of Santa traditions from all around the world created by Loretta Miller. RSVP volunteers keep the exhibit open for viewing by the public during the holiday season and every year, the exhibit attracts tourists from all around the state. This very special exhibit will be open on Thursdays and Fridays from 1 – 5 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sundays from 1 – 5 p.m. Viewings at different times can also be arranged by calling RSVP. We still need volunteers for this festive holiday job. Contact Joyce or Donna at 792-1614 for more information or to volunteer.
Even though December is one of the busiest months of the year for many people, nearly everyone can find a little extra time to help others in need. Meals on Wheels in Hoisington is in desperate need of drivers to deliver noon meals. Please call Virginia at Clara Barton Hospital at 653-2114 if you can help. The Senior Center in Great Bend needs volunteers to help with the noon meals during the week. Call Rosie at 792-3906 if you have a little extra time. The Salvation Army is looking for a few special people to help with their annual fund-raising campaign by ringing a bell. This major fundraiser allows the Salvation Army to assist many people in our communities with emergency financial assistance. Call the Thrift Store at 792-4299 take part in an important holiday tradition.
RSVP will be delivering lap robes to all the nursing and assisted living facilities in Barton County before Christmas. Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers that made these cozy gifts for those in our communities without families or friends at this holiday season. Your efforts are so appreciated.
For the last two weeks of December, the RSVP office will only be open Monday through Wednesday. The office will be open Dec. 19 – 21 and Dec. 26—28. If you need schedule a medical ride during that time or need to call regarding Meals on Wheels, please call on one of those days. Voice mails will be checked daily but no one will be in the office on Thursday or Friday. The schedule will go back to normal on Jan. 2.
Happy holidays and best wishes for a healthy New Year from all of us at RSVP.