How the program began
Heavenly Angels was founded in 2012 by Marrise McKnight. It was developed following a difficult situation where Marrise and her siblings were faced with the choice of placing their mother, Adell Jerdean Freeman, in a senior center. Marrise’s mother expressed great fear of being placed in a center. She was afraid of …show more content…
Last year, during Christmas time, Heavenly Angels blessed 70 senior citizens with gifts. Volunteers decorate participating senior centers and provide a memorable Christmas party. The gifts given are for seniors to keep and open on Christmas day. It is important to the volunteers that seniors feel remembered and honored.
Volunteers
Heavenly Angels functions with no paid staff and has 23 valued volunteers that conduct events throughout the year. Volunteers work in conjunction with the annual Red Bud Walk and Spencer Unity Day. Marrise McKnight has received special recognition for exceptional community service from Southwest Airlines (2017).
In the future
Thus far, financial needs have been met through private gifts and from Marrise McKnight’s personal funds. In the past, Heavenly Angels has provided Easter, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day gifts and corresponding celebrations. Due to budget cuts, the program has limited its celebrations and gift giving in 2017. Gifts will be distributed during Christmas until additional funds are raised for other holidays. Marrise and her team of dedicated volunteers hope that funds will grow to meet the needs of local seniors.
Heavenly Angels is hoping to expand its services. The program hopes to offer:
Vouchers for medications and food;
Co-payment assistance for medical expenses including