March 19, 2024

ARK gives back in big ways

ARK or Acts of Random Kindness of The Way at Newton Church of The Way is having a free winter pajamas and clothes give away from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the church, 2306 S. Third Ave. E.

The pajamas and clothes are for children sizes 0 to 14 and are free to anyone in the community while supplies last.

ARK, which was started by Rod and Marla Van Soelen as a way to give back to the community, has been doing random give away for the past year since it formed. Based on the scripture Matthew 10:86 “Give freely as you have received!” the group tries to have give aways for items that are not normally found at other free events.

“ARK has been in effect for over a year and I would say they have had six different give aways at least within that time,” said Betty Samson, director of Ministries.

Past events have included a book bag/backpack, school supplies and winter coat giveaways.

“About every other month they do a give away,” said the Rev. Steve Heerema.

All items are donated by people of the church as well as items donated by the church itself for the events. The Van Soelen’s are the organizers behind the events and gather the items as well as organize volunteers for the events.

“They were inspired to do it, but they felt like God called them to do it,” Heerema said.

ARK tries to speak with other ministries and organizations so the give aways are not redundant. The events have a theme behind them but often have additional items available.

“They always have a few extra things. This go round they will have pajamas and clothes for kids but they may have some other stuff put out from the last time,” Heerema said.

At the fall back to school event, more than 175 back packs and the events keep getting bigger and bigger. The items are only available on the day of the event and while supplies last, so people are asked to come early for the largest selection. Upcoming events planned include a January diapers, wipes and toilet paper giveaway and a March event for spring and summer clothes.