In a year where everything is uncertain, need still goes on. Yesterday, we held our winter coat distribution at Oakdale, Birmingham, and Navarre elementary schools. We were not sure what it would look like, but so many people stepped up to help.
We would like to recognize and say “thank you” to the following:
Lisa Taylor Sedlak and Danberry Realtors: In 2018, this company and its employees, who have collected coats and supported kids for numerous years, enthusiastically supported a coat drive for students at Oakdale. They partnered with us in 2019 and helped us expand to Birmingham. In 2020, they showed that same love and caring.
This company and its employees are the reason we were able to even hold a distribution three years ago. We would not be in the position to help without them. We cannot thank them enough for having faith in what we wanted to do for our kids. We were a four-month-old organization in 2018, and they believed in us. A huge part of why we can continue to help kids is because of their kindness and generosity.
Rob Sutton and Josh Deer: Two Eastsiders who reached out to us and asked how they could help. They are proud of where they came from and believe in giving back. Thank you, gentlemen.
Stacy Smith Buraszeski: With a connection to Navarre, she collected and donated bags and bags of coats, hats, and scarves. I almost could not see over those bags to drive home after we met. Great problem to have (although I was able to push them down and drive home safely). Stacy Smith Buraszeski, you were a huge part in this year’s success.
Eastminster United Presbyterian Church and Steingraber and Associates: Their contributions allowed us to purchase some coats for distribution. We hope that we made them proud. When Eastside churches and businesses say they believe in us and our purpose, we are truly humbled and honored with the trust they place in us.
Holly Farrell Lewis, Premier Bank, and Jennifer and Ben Warnke: The Warnke family gathered clothes, shoes, hats, etc., and donated it all for families in need. Holly and Premier Bank made sure those donations were received for the day of distribution.
Thank you all for working with us and giving.
The teachers, staff, and administrators at Oakdale, Birmingham, and Navarre: You have been so welcoming to the Foundation and our mission. You care for the kids and neighborhoods you serve. You are some of their biggest champions and advocates. We sincerely hope that Eastsiders feel the love and support you have for them.
Last, but certainly not least, we thank our board members. Every single one of you gives your time, money, ideas, and guidance to this organization and its goals. Born and raised in East Toledo, products of Waite High School, you have never lost sight of where you come from and the traditions we all hold dear. You keep us grounded, motivated, and on task. Everything we do to support the community happens because you continue to support us.
Ann and I know that “thank you” does not nearly cover how grateful we are to everyone who made this a success, but it’s a start.
Sincerely,
Ann Hornyak and Kara Acors
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