by Gail Elliott

In recognition of American Heart Month, this February the Missions Committee voted to donate $250 to the American Heart Association . Despite the great progress that has been made in reducing fatalities from heart disease, there is still much work to be done. The American Heart Association seeks to address this continuing need through improvements in care, funding of critical research, training individuals in CPR  skills, and providing heart-healthy food to families in need.

This month the Missions Committee also voted to donate $250 to the RI Nonviolence Institute in recognition, during Black History Month, of the power of nonviolent action to create a more just world . The RI Nonviolence Institute uses the principles and practices of nonviolence to create safer, more resilient communities. Through outreach programs in Woonsocket, Providence, Pawtucket and Central Fall the Institute offers mentorship to high-risk youth, mediates gang conflicts, and connects individuals with education and employment opportunities. They extend services to victims of violent crimes and assist individuals who are transitioning back to the community following incarceration. Their work also includes offering nonviolence training to hospitals, schools, corporations, non-profits and other groups.

We continued our support of the Men’s Shelter in Woonsocket by, in conjunction with the Broaster House, providing a monthly hot meal to the men who are sheltering there. Those meals will continue to be  provided until the shelter closes at the end of March. Thank you to Sandy Gamache who provides delicious homemade desserts as part of these meals and to Bob Meo and Steve Wowk who deliver the meals.