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   Have you ever been at school and realize that you will not be able to go out during recess because you do not have warm enough clothes–or gotten to the bus stop and realized that it is colder then you thought? Some families even may not have the resources to equip all their family members with hats, mittens, and scarves to keep them warm enough for our Minnesota winters. Or worse yet, you may be an individual or family who is homeless for one reason or another and do not have the funding or ability to get these items. 

   For the past 5 years, Salem Lutheran church in Longville has had an in-house mission to supply hats, mittens and scarves to local schools and a homeless shelter. Unfortunately, the need has grown too large for just our church alone to get these items to where they are needed most. In the past year, more homeless shelters have opened and requested help for this winter. So, we need our areas help. During August through October, Salem will be collecting hats, mittens and scarves to distribute to many schools and organizations in need. 

   Salem is reaching out to the entire area to help in this mission. Do you have new, gently used or homemade hats, gloves, or scarves? We would like to find a new home for them. If you like to knit, sew, or crochet, we would love if you could share your talents with others and make these items. 

   Maybe you do not have time or talents in this area but you would love to help others, you could make a financial contribution and the team will gladly shop for you. Please make your check out to Salem Lutheran Church and place in the memo; Hat, mitten fund, then send it to Salem at 1340 Co Rd. 5, Longville, MN 56655. If you have any of these items you would like to donate, they can be dropped off at the church between 8 a.m.  to 3 p.m. during the week or on Sundays from 8 to 11 a.m.  

   If you have any questions, you can contact Beth Tobiason at (763) 670-7002. Please consider helping!

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