Sally and Craig Noel have fun supporting Isaiah 58 Ministries. A few years ago when decorating the Christmas tree started to feel more like a chore, and less like something they looked forward to doing, Sally and Craig decided to make it fun again by creating a yearly themed tree that allowed them to give back. This past year, they had a “Sock It To Me” tree decorated with baby socks; and with each gathering they hosted throughout the holiday season they invited friends and family to bring socks for the tree. In all they collected over 450 pairs of socks! The socks were shared with Isaiah 58 Ministries and other agencies caring for those in need.
In 2023, they collected diapers and underwear for their “undies under the tree” theme. The theme for 2025 is still under wraps.
Sally explained, “we have fun doing the themed trees and it’s a blessing that we can do it.” Craig added “everyone can do something to help and this is what we’ve chosen to do.” A wonderful feature about Craig and Sally’s tree is that it gives others the opportunity to be generous too.
Sally also loves to bake. When she learned that the pantry shares home-baked treats with our Fresh Food Friday guests each week, she offered to bring enough treats for both guests and volunteers once a month. Pantry guests have been blessed with a variety of deserts including blueberry bread and egg nog cranberry bread. Sally and Craig also deliver baked goods to local police and fire stations. They have a friend who donates baking supplies so that he can be a part of their generosity too.
We’ve probably all heard the aphorism “give until it hurts.” But Sally and Craig know better—they like to give because it’s fun.