Little Baskets Make a Big Difference

Sometimes the simplest gestures hold the greatest value.

QI of Kirksville, Missouri, U.S.A., offers simple and meaningful comfort to families who experience the trauma of a home fire with baskets of immediate essentials. Things like soap, toothbrushes, towels, wash cloths, tissues, diapers, toilet paper, explains past club president Linda Frazee, bring some comfort and dignity to those who have been so abruptly displaced.

Lila Farr, a charter member of the club and current chair of this wonderful project—and Linda Frazee's mother—makes sure the baskets are always stocked and available in case of an emergency. When the supply of baskets dwindles to one or two, she raises the Fire Basket issue at the next meeting.

Club members all participate in the donations. The club purchases oval-shaped wicker laundry baskets, then members bring in the items. They don't have a fundraiser for this GREAT IDEA; members just quietly load the baskets with things people need in a hurry. Of course, once the baskets are filled, the Kirksville club adds a Quota Cares Teddy Bear with an encouraging card and a ribbon on top.

When a club member learns about someone in the community who has experienced a house fire, typically 10 to 12 times per year, someone arrives quickly with one of the baskets that is ready and waiting for Kirksville residents who need a touch of Quota caring.

—Blaire Fallon Byrley
© 2001