April Meeting: Community Service

While scenic landscapes and historic towns define the Susquehanna Valley, the US 15 corridor is a critical focal point in the fight against human trafficking. Stretching from the Maryland border through Central Pennsylvania and into New York, this highway serves as a major transit artery that traffickers exploit to move victims between urban hubs while remaining “under the radar.” In rural stretches – including Union and Snyder Counties—traffickers often utilize truck stops, motels, and even agricultural sites to harbor individuals away from the high-density surveillance of major cities. This geographical reality makes the SUN are a unique frontline where the quiet nature of the region can inadvertently provide cover for modern-day slavery.

Human trafficking does not always include transportation over long distances. A particularly devastating aspect of this crisis is the hidden trafficking, which occurs when children are exploited by adults in their life, and even classmates. Social media has increased the number of trafficked youths who appear to be living a normal life, but are attending classes, participating in extracurriculars, and sleeping in their own bed each night.

Combatting this requires the dedicated work of local organizations like Fierce Love 4 Good. They focus on community awareness and providing immediate, tangible support through their Angel Pack Partnership, which supplies survivors—including infants and children—with backpacks full of essentials like clothing, hygiene products, and encouraging notes. They work alongside broader regional efforts and value on community support.

Instead of our regular monthly meeting, SUN Area Republican Women will participate in one of the Angel Pack packing nights on April 7th. If you would like to join our council, call 570-850-5975.

Needed items and locations accepting donations are listed on the Fierce Love 4 Good website.

Spreading Kindness

By now we all know that care facilities are locked down meaning no visitors or volunteers may enter. It also means that residents are confined to their rooms 24/7, including for meals. Imagine living every day with limited personal interaction and not seeing your friends, family, or friend down the hall.

When we understand that many long-term care residents do not have their own radio or TV in their room, let alone a computer or cell phone, we realize the boredom and fear of the virus or being forgotten are real issues. Those with dementia or disabilities may think they are being “punished.”

That is why we are launching our “Spreading Kindness” initiative to provide cards, letters and activities to residents in local living facilities. Residents in these facilities are used to fairly active lives and are missing their families, friends, Sr. Center lunches, church services, etc.

Won’t you considering participating as a way to keep yourself engaged in community or your children creatively occupied? Don’t be put off by perfectionism or lack of materials. The simplest note on a piece of paper will brighten someone’s day. Children might draw pictures or include a paper craft. Do not go shopping, but instead use what you have at home.

What to do?

  • Send cards and notes with encouraging messages, such as “We’re thinking of you!’ and “I hope you have a great day!”
  • Tell them a little about yourself, if you wish. Are you a farmer getting ready to plant fields, do you have a hobby or a pet, or did you take a vacation to an interesting place last year? Give them something to think about.
  • Include an activity if you can. You might print out an activity page from online sources.
  • Include a stamp and envelope if you wish. You may get a return note or make it possible for the resident to write a letter to their loved ones.

**Please DO NOT send food or candy. Many residents have special dietary needs or are diabetic.**

Where to send?

Any out-of-home living facility you know of in your area.  Address your mail to:  Any Resident – Spreading Kindness

When to send?

Now! And as this situation continues.

We thank you!

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  • "It does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate, tireless minority keen to set brush fires in people's minds." -- Samuel Adams
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