With support of the community, drive delivers more than 600 ‘Bags of Love’
OCEAN CITY – Wesley by the Bay recently concluded its fourth annual “Have a Heart for Veterans” campaign and it was a remarkable success, according to organizers.
What began as a small initiative to collect candy hearts for veterans has blossomed into a widespread, heartwarming effort that touched communities across the East Coast. This year, the campaign was bigger and better than ever, with donations flooding in from as far away as Georgia.
The goal of the campaign is to bring joy, warmth and a sense of love to veterans in honor of Valentine’s Day, and the response was overwhelming. With the generous contributions from people of all ages and backgrounds, Wesley by the Bay was able to assemble 600 “Bags of Love” – each filled to the brim with thoughtful donated items like chips, cookies, crackers, candy hearts, toiletries, clothing and more. These bags were carefully prepared and packed with love by a dedicated community of volunteers who are committed to showing veterans that they are appreciated and valued.
The story behind the “Have a Heart for Veterans” campaign is truly inspiring, organizers said. This year several local groups rallied together to make it all possible. Children and adults with disabilities contributed by placing stickers on the bags, making sure each one had its own personal touch. Children from several local school districts took part in making heartfelt cards, reminding the veterans that they are remembered and respected. It is about so much more than the bags; it is about the collective spirit of kindness and gratitude that permeates this initiative. It is a chance for people to come together, make a difference, and honor those who have served this country. For many veterans, receiving these tokens of gratitude can bring a much-needed smile to their faces.
To make the donation process as easy as possible, Wesley by the Bay created an Amazon Wishlist for donors this year, allowing people to conveniently purchase items that were needed. However, a small challenge arose because donors could not sign their names when purchasing through the Wishlist and Wesley by the Bay was unable to identify all the generous individuals and groups who contributed. Organizers will be working out the kinks with Amazon for next year’s campaign.
Wesley by the Bay thanked all those who made a difference including United Methodist Communities at The Shores, Hawks & Co., ServePro, the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Ocean City Public Schools, Dennis Township Public Schools, volunteers of St. Pete’s Church, St. John’s Church, and several other local churches, Shriver’s Saltwater Taffy, Johnson’s Popcorn, Kilwin’s Candy, Hilltop Landscaping, Western Pest Control, Kathryn Harris, several American Legion and VFW posts, local communities, Knights of Columbus, local restaurants, Lisa’s Sweet Treats, Chester Bakery and more.
The generosity and kindness are truly appreciated and the success of this project would not have been possible without these supporters.
Looking ahead, Wesley by the Bay is excited to expand the campaign even more. Wesley by the Bay is already planning for next year’s drive and aims to prepare 800 “Bags of Love” for veterans.
Anyone who knows of homes or facilities that house veterans can contact Wesley by the Way so these veterans can be included in the route next year. Please contact Kathy Speer at (609) 399-6702 or email kspeer@umcommunities.org.
The beauty of this initiative is that it gives people purpose – whether it is those packing the bags, writing cards, donating items or delivering the donations, everyone plays a huge role in honoring these veterans.
Wesley by the Bay’s “Have a Heart for Veterans” is more than just a Valentine’s Day gesture; it is a beautiful reminder of the power of community and how small acts of kindness can create ripple effects of positivity, while honoring and celebrating the brave souls who have served this country. As one volunteer shared, “It’s about giving these veterans a reminder that they are loved, they are important and they are not forgotten.”
– SPECIAL TO THE SENTINEL
