The Prairie Godmothers hope to spin more magic by hosting a Bag Lady Brunch from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 18th, at the Best Western Courtyard, 2920 10th St.
This fundraiser includes a brunch and mimosas and a short program about the nonprofit group of women helping women. The festivities will conclude with a silent and live auction of over 50 kinds of bags, including designer bags, spa bag, tool bag, book lovers bag, jewelry bag, laundry bag and Ladies Night Out bag. Money raised will help build the endowed Prairie Godmothers Fund, allowing the group to continue to support women in need in Barton County.
Tickets are $20 and are avaiable at the Golden Belt Community Foundation office, 1307 Williams St. Godmothers’ member Melanie Calcara said the number of tickets is limited and they won’t be available at the door.
This event is underwritten by Doris Spray, Tammy Holt, Kelly Spray, and Julie Spray.

Wishes granted
The Prairie Godmother Funds have awarded approximately $4,000 in grants in the past six months, Calcara said. Some recent grants include:
• Automotive - A mom needed help with her car repair so she would have dependable transportation for herself and her four children.
 • Electric Bill - A single mom with four children was living with no electricity.  A Prairie Godmother grant, in conjunction with funds from other local agencies, allowed her to have her electricity restored.
 • Housing Deposit - A local woman on disability was living in very poor conditions. A grant to assist with a housing deposit allowed her to move to HUD housing that was safer and in better condition.
 • Rent - A single mother and her young son were facing homelessness. A wish granted to assist with back rent allowed them to keep their home.

Help available
Any Barton County women who has a short-term, critical need can be referred to the Prairie Godmother Advisory Board. Grant applications must be made through one of following partner agencies:
Barton County Emergency Aid Association: 620-793-3345
Barton County Health Department: 620-793-1902
Family Crisis Center: 620-793-9941
Heart of Kansas Family Healthcare: 620-792-5700
Lasting Life Ministries: 620-603-6283
The Center for Health and Wellness:  620-793-314