Giving In Community

Each year at Convention time (10/20-10/21), the deacons of the diocese organize an outreach effort. Actually, I dislike the term outreach, because it seems to suggest that some are “in” while others are “out.” We are all “in.”

With that in mind, this year's effort of creating and distributing First Aid Kits focuses equally on engaging in community, both in your parish, as well as those in need. The goal is to get First Aid Kits into the hands of people who will not seek medical treatment for simple cuts and are at risk of infection.

Deacons or postulants will serve as deanery representatives to coordinate distribution and to answer any questions that may arise. If a parish cannot identify an organization that can benefit from reception of the kits, they can be brought to convention for further distribution.

Here is the plan:

• Organize folks from your parish. Purchase the items on the list (see below). Perhaps make it a group shopping day. You can decide how many kits to make, from your generosity, and your understanding of the need. Build the Kingdom.
• Gather around a table. Talk, eat, pray, and assemble the First Aid Kits into a gallon freezer bag. Talk about Jesus.
• While assembling, have a conversation about where these might be most needed. If necessary do some research around your neighborhood or around the diocese. Go out in pairs.
• Around Convention time, distribute the kits, making every effort to have an opportunity to get to know the people that will be receiving them. Talk about Jesus.
• If you need suggestions as to where they might be needed, reach out to the co-chairs, listed below.
• If transportation help is needed, contact the co-chairs.

• Narcan is an optional item for the kits. Please mark any kits “Narcan” if you have included this item. This item can be obtained from the local health department.

Here is a list of items:

(4) Gauze Pads 3”x3”

(4) Gauze Roll 3’wide

(1) Surgical tape 1” wide

(4) Saline 5 ml unit dose

(4) Triple Antibiotic Ointment, 9 gram individual packets

(1) Lip Balm

(10) Band-Aids (regular size)

(1)Personal size Hand Sanitizer

(4) Individually Wrapped Alcohol Wipes

(3)Ibuprofen-Packets of two

(2)Nitrile Gloves-XL

One pair of Socks

Feel free to include more than the recommended quantities. You might also add a line of scripture and the name of your parish.

Any questions or comments, please contact the co-chairs:

Deacon Andrea Gardner  deaconandreagardner@gmail.com

Postulant to the diaconate Renee Coleman releec68@gmail.com or 267 951 9450

Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.