March 28, 2024

Church of The Way to distribute blessings bags

Blessing bags donated

The Newton Church of The Way is holding an Acts of Random Kindness event Saturday by distributing blessings bags to those in need.

From 9 a.m. to noon, those who are in need are invited to receive a bag of diapers, toilet paper and wipes and other hygiene items. The bags will be available at The Way Cafe until supplies lasts.

In addition to the blessings bags, there will also be a free breakfast served in the cafe.

Church members Rod and Marla Van Soelen have coordinated the event as a way to reach out to those in need in the community, but they said they can’t take credit for the initial idea.

Marla said the blessing bags weren’t supplied by the church but by an anonymous donor.

“The blessing bags were left at the church,” Marla said. “All the items were hygiene items, and they are things you can’t buy with food stamps.”

Marla said the church holds ARK events on a regular basis, and they usually include giving away summer or winter clothing.

“We really want to focus on the children,” Marla said. “We really feel honored to be able to do this.”

Marla said when people in need come into the church, they will fill out a basic needs sheet and they are welcome to share a little bit about their story.

“We will listen if they want to share something about themselves,” Marla said. “They are all welcome here.”

Contact Kayla Langmaid at 641-792-3121 ext. 6513 or klangmaid@newtondailynews.com