With record-breaking cold temperatures this month, the homeless, living on streets and alleyways throughout North Central Florida, have been particularly vulnerable. There are not enough shelters, and even if available, some homeless refuse the assistance.
In response to their desperate blight, four neighbors in the Village of Bonita are bringing them a small measure of warmth and comfort this winter season. Fern DeLaCroix and her husband Cliff, and Pattie Barrett and her husband Dave launched Comfort Bundles for the Homeless.
“Each bundle contains a tarp to provide comfort from the rain; a fleece blanket to provide comfort from the cold, a yoga mat to provide comfort from the hard ground, and a strap to keep them together and also makes for easier carrying,” explains Fern. “In additional, Pattie sews in a patch on which inspirational messages are written.’
The bundles serve multi-functions. Not only are they make-shift beds but can be made into temporary hammocks and tents, or simply used as a wrap-around blanket.
Twenty of their bundles already have been distributed by the Salvation Army while another 20 has been given to homeless in Ocala. On Jan. 16, Kris Valencia, representing the Central Florida Homeless Coalition received 20 bundles.
The response by the grateful recipients has been overwhelming. A Salvation Army staffer reported, “Just want you to know what a blessing the bundles have been. (The homeless) have told me how wonderful that they are not on the cold ground. They are staying dry in spite of the dampness. God Bless all who contributed and thanks for caring. They seem so grateful to have them.”
The Villages foursome had sought $15 donations from their Eureka Mill Run and Centerville Place neighbors to help offset their on-going expenses. Each bundle costs $15.
“We truly live in a very generous community and pleased with everyone’s immediate response,” said Pattie said. “Now, we hope others will join us as we expand our goal and assemble another 60 mats – 20 each for Sumter, Marion and Lake counties – and distribute them in the next few days while they are desperately needed.
Donors have the opportunity to create their own quote or request Fern and Pattie to select and inscribe one for them. One quote is inscribed on every blanket.
“These messages are an important way for people to know that someone has remembered, that someone cares,” said Cliff.
Comfort Bundles for Homeless is the most recent initiative conducted by the two families. Last December, Fern led a successful campaign that raised funds and Christmas presents for the Heart of Florida Youth Range; while Pattie is actively involved with hospices, Operation Shoe Box and the 4H.
Those interested in having a warm feeling by making a donation so others will have a warm feeling can contact Fern at (352) 561-4332 or fernhd@live.com
