10/10/2025
17 years ago on October 9 we set sail on the maiden voyage of the Hamburg United Methodist Church “R” Gang Respite Program. $1000 to purchase craft supplies and activity items had been awarded by Stan Hooper, a pillar of our church, to fund the idea of an all volunteer program for folks with dementia and their caregivers. The idea I had was that caregivers could drop their loved ones off with us for four hours under supervised, trained volunteers and attend to their own needs, getting a much needed break, or “respite”.
The program was so successful that I was asked to start more programs just like it in various churches. Last month, I helped start the 36th program on Clinton Street at Friendship Baptist Church.
I thank all that have helped us along the way with this ministry that benefits so many.
I give thanks to all the committed, dedicated volunteers that help out these programs, because without them, there would be no program.
I thank all of our funders from the United Methodist women, to the United Methodist men, to the Missions committee of HUMC, Erie County Senior Services, the Alzheimer’s Association, the Health Foundation of Central and Western New York and all the private individuals that send donations, not because they’ve been asked for them, but because they want to support the program. There has never been a charge to attend this program.
This ministry/program has been such a blessing to all, so thank you all for being what we are called to be as Christians, the hands and feet of Jesus.
Cheers to many more years!
