Cross Sewing Bee Shares God-Given Gifts with CRC Residents
Members of Cross Lutheran Church in Clinton Township have been helping older adults in their local community for many years. When asked if they could make a walker bag for a senior with mobility challenges, the Cross Sewing Bee was born, says member Elaine Wagner. A home economics teacher in their group loaned some sewing machines. Another who owned an upholstery company donated some fabric swatches. “We made 25 bags at our first meeting,” says Elaine.
Elaine says the group of about eight meets on a regular basis. Her husband, Dave, and her two daughters also help with cutting fabric and ironing the pieces. “It’s a family thing and it’s a Cross family thing,” says Elaine. “We meet and have lunch – it’s a fun social activity.”
Elaine’s brother-in-law, Lynn Wagner, is a resident of Chelsea Retirement Community (CRC). After giving Lynn his own walker bag, the interest grew. “Other residents asked Lynn where he got it,” says Elaine.
The Cross Sewing Bee recently donated 37 walker bags for use by CRC residents in Independent and Assisted Living. Kori Rochefort, Life Enrichment Coordinator for CRC’s Assisted Living, says their residents are grateful for the gift. “These beautiful walker bags are sturdy and functional. Our residents love them!”
Cross Lutheran Church received a small seed grant from Thrivent Financial which the Sewing Bee has used to rejuvenate their sewing machines and purchase fabric. In the future, the group is also planning to provide local veterans with walker bags and other accessories.
“I’m thankful we can share our God-given gifts in this way,” says Elaine.
To learn more about Chelsea Retirement Community, visit our website at https://umrc.com/communities/chelsea-retirement-community/.