Crafters provide New Beginnings for kids in need

By Vicki Randolph
Everyday is a New Beginning for a child when someone lends a loving hand.

Ashe County is home to many people who add to its beauty and charm by the unselfishness in their hearts.

New Beginnings is just one more example of concerned citizens taking care of those in need.

New Beginnings is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to enhance the lives of Ashe County children in foster care or in crisis situations. Unlike lots of other nonprofits though, there is no government funding or hefty grants providing funds for this group.

All of their members are volunteers, and all income is derived directly from individual donations and fund raisers. The bulk of the funding comes from sales at the craft bazaars they have each year.

The items available are quality, handcrafted works made by volunteers who donate their time to make a difference in the lives of children. When asked why they donate their time and talents, the response from volunteers is unanimously, "because it's rewarding knowing we're doing it for a good cause."

New Beginnings volunteers will have a booth at the Mountain Valley Festival on May 17 at Green Valley Park in Watauga County.

All the proceeds from the sales next week go to pay for the countless things these kids need. Every child New Beginnings helps is coming from some sort of crisis circumstance. Whether they are coming out of meth labs and have damaged lungs or some other unfortunate situation, every one of these children has experienced either physical, verbal or sexual abuse.

It's very sad that these situations are still exist, but it's very fortunate there is help out there for them.
New Beginnings began eleven years ago, providing toiletry bags for kids going into foster care. Now it's expanded to so much more.

As the Department of Social Services workers are on their way to help a child in crisis, they know they can stop by the New Beginnings house and pick up pre-packed duffel bags filled with clothes, toiletries and other things that will get the kids off to a fresh start-or a new beginning.

Sandy Chatman, vice chairman of the organization says she and the other volunteers work so hard because, "these children deserve the best society can provide for them in the way of new clothing, haircuts and other things to boost their self esteem and encourage them."

Duffel bags aren't the only things provided. Each child also receives new clothes and school supplies at the beginning of the school year. There are even diapers, new coats, books, toys, blankets and "stuffy" friends to provide comfort for these precious children ages birth to 18 years old.

The needs are filled all year long, but Christmas really puts a dent in their supplies. This past December, 34 children had a happier holiday due to gifts from New Beginnings. Nineteen of those were from the safe house run by A.S.H.E., A Safe Home For Everyone.

The children also receive gifts on their birthdays and other surprises throughout the year. Valentine bags, Easter baskets and Halloween treats are just some of them.

If one of the children has a special need, the volunteers of New Beginnings make sure it is met. Summer camp, sports supplies, and reportedly even a prom dress-every effort is made for every child to live a normal, happy life.

Anyone wishing to help New Beginnings is welcome to join them. Donations of money, new clothing or even craft supplies are always appreciated. And anyone with crafting talents can donate their time as well. Not only is it a great cause, but it's also a lot of fun.

Monday morning volunteers have a blast working together and coming up with unique items. There are traditional handcrafts and painted wooden furniture along side edible flower arrangements made from candy kisses and other confections. Craft volunteer Pat Lindsay, while stuffing a whimsical bunny, says she comes because, "I really enjoy the fellowship."

To purchase quality, locally made items, or to make any donations, everyone is invited to come by the New Beginnings booth at the Mountain Valley Fest next Saturday. If readers can't make it to the festival, they can still contribute by calling Sandy Chatman at (336) 982-5406.