Alyce has been involved with this ministry since the very beginning. She met Jerry at their church, Bostwick Lake Congregational, and convinced her to volunteer for our Christmas Store. That was more than 12 years ago. Now they both volunteer in the pantry on Wednesday afternoons and Jerry works in the thrift store twice a week. The NKC staff adore these two women.
“Alyce is a go-getter. Quite the spitfire. A few years ago, she was riding in a golf cart and fell out when her friend took off too fast. Alyce broke her arm, but she came to work in the pantry the next day. I think she was 90 then. That’s dedication! Jerry seems stern at first but has the driest sense of humor once you get to know her. She always makes jellies, apple butter, and her famous cheese spread for us at Christmas. Alyce and Jerry are truly funny, like Lucy and Ethel.”
(Beverly Bouma, food programs manager)
“Jerry does the staging in our store. She makes it look beautiful. Plus, she’s pretty sassy and keeps us in line.”
(Virginia Souders, store manager)
“Jerry is very dependable and willing to do anything. She works well with other volunteers and our customers. She’s a doer. And she brings us delicious treats all the time!”
(Taylor Ronk, merchandise processor)
“Jerry arrives dressed to the tee, with cute Christmas sweaters and earrings to match. Alyce is always happy to be here and cares so much about everyone.”
(Kristen Gravelle, volunteer coordinator)
Alyce also checks in clients for Senior Pantry once a month. She works alongside volunteers Lucy Layman and Ann Wilson.
“The three of us get along so well. It’s comforting for the seniors to see a familiar face. It’s not just ‘hi and bye.’ We’ve become friends with many of them and some have passed away. I know Alyce loves to serve the people.”
(Lucy Layman, Senior Pantry volunteer for 29 years)
Jerry and Alyce know that showing a little compassion goes a long way. Sometimes people just need a listening ear and someone to smile and say, “I’m praying for you” or “You can get through this.” Our volunteers and case managers encourage our clients, treating them with dignity and respect. Your financial support of North Kent Connect enables us to journey alongside our families, showing them the way forward. Thank you for supporting this vital ministry!