On Sunday, Aug. 13, parishioners from St. Amelia Parish in Tonawanda, New York gathered to celebrate Mass and enjoy a doughnut social to thank Sister Peggy Wetzel for her years of service as the director of their Parish Outreach Program.
During her four and a half years, she worked with more than 100 volunteers who gave their time, talent and helping hands and hearts to reach out to those in need. Sister Peggy established the Baby and Kids Closet which provided clothes along with baby items, furniture and toys for families in need. With the help many volunteer drivers, she transported senior adult and sick parishioners to their doctors’ appointments. She served with the Ministry of Praise, Prayer Shawl Ministry and the medical equipment loan ministry, which also served the needs of the sick and elderly.
Sister Peggy also encouraged volunteers to visit parishioners who were in the hospital, nursing homes or homebound. During the Christmas season, gifts of new clothing and toys for more than 60 families filled the “giving tree” area in the church, thanks to the generosity of the parish community.
People who came to the Outreach office were greeted by friendly volunteers who helped to sort and pack clothing and household items for many area social service agencies. They also met Sister Peggy who listened to their needs and was able to help those who needed help paying their rent, medical or utility bills. Others received household items or furniture they needed.
Sister Peggy often said that “It is the help of so many volunteers and the generosity of the people of the parish that make it possible for us to meet the needs of those who come to us.”
