A Day for Others – Jenise LeMay When we first began the 4-day work week
trial, I wanted to devote some of my new free time using my sewing skills for the benefit of others. I’m now leading a small sewing group at our church, and we meet weekly to sew for charitable causes - we are on our 3rd project. While we only have 6 members so far, we are trying to make a difference in the community locally, as well as around the world where need is great. One of the challenges we face is gathering large quantities of supplies, but we’ve had 2 sewing machines donated, one from a local sewing machine shop. In many parts of Haiti, families have very little, and many children are not able to attend school due to the fear of armed gangs and the shortages of food, water and fuel. We have a connection to a school there.
We made 30 drawstring book bags for the students and filled them with school supplies. While we also wanted to include some nonperishable food items, it posed a greater risk of the school not receiving our gift. There is always a chance that our donations could be seized, but we were able to get the filled book bags to the children without having them delivered by mail directly. The students were very appreciative, and we are planning to make another 30 book bags. This has been a fulfilling endeavor, and every week I look forward to sewing with the other members of our group!
Jenise works in the Upholstery Department of Advanced RV. She has sewn as a hobby from a young age and professionally in the home decor field for 12 plus years. Jenise grew up in Virginia Beach, Virginia where she met and married Mike LeMay. They have three grown children, a grandson, and live with their beagle mix, Harlie.
Jenise, front left, with a member of the sewing group
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