Special to the News
Two retired Coosa County school teachers and Parents as Teachers home educators Jo Ann Shealey and Sheryl Borden made their hearts’ desire a reality as they partnered with the Prayer House and those who were willing to share their dream of providing 25 children with clothing, shoes, toys, and teaching/learning games for Christmas.
The two retirees who served families in Coosa County for more than 40 years realized the vital need for family support in their county and joined together to make things happen. Their goal was to raise at least $1,200 through personally giving and asking family, friends, churches, and civic groups for donations.
The response from supporters was astounding as the two were able to raise more than $1,600 and provide gifts to 31 children from 12 different families! Each family was grateful for the much-needed support.
Shealey and Borden would like to thank each of you who personally helped to make this project a success.
We’d like to offer special gratitude to the following community leaders who made this project go beyond expectations: Michael Howell (Coosa County Sheriff’s Office); Mary Lee Graham (Goodwater City Council); Goodwater Dollar General; JoEtta Maxwell (J.D. Thompson Alumni Association, Cottage Grove); Rev. Malcolm Strong (Mt. Olive MBC, Goodwater); Rev. Bruce Henderson Jr. (New Home Baptist Church, Hissop); Rev. Larry Shealey (Darian MBC, Alexander City); and Santa’s Elves, Sandra, Bridgett and Larrecia, who worked tirelessly to stuff stockings for a timely delivery.
The two retirees intend to make this project an annual event and are already working toward next year’s sharing opportunity. If you’d like to join in or know more about the project, please contact Jo Ann Shealey at 256-794-0987 or Sheryl Borden at 256-625-6076. Wishing you blessings for a prosperous New Year!
