Left to right: May Stefanov, tenant relations coordinator with Tikva Housing Society, and Courtney Cohen, co-founder of Rose’s Angels. (photo from Rose’s Angels)
Eleven not-for-profits received donations from this year’s Rose’s Angels, including Mamas for Mamas, Richmond Food Bank Society, Jewish Family Services’ Grocery Program (formerly known as the Jewish Food Bank), Tikva Housing Society and Pathways Clubhouse.
Run under the umbrella of the Kehila Society of Richmond, Rose’s Angels was created in 2012 by Courtney Cohen and Lynne Fader. It was founded in memory of Cohen’s grandmothers, Rose Lewin and Babs Cohen, who were both very philanthropic and instilled in Cohen the importance of giving back to community.
Essential personal care items, non-perishable food items, children’s arts and crafts materials, diapers and baby formula were among the donations received by Rose’s Angels this year. For many of its partner agencies, diapers and non-perishable food were among the top priority items.
“Being a mom myself, I can’t imagine what it must feel like to not have the access or means to provide essential items for your child,” said Cohen, stressing the impacts of the rising cost of living and the strain it’s putting on families and single parents.
“Supporting organizations that do such meaningful outreach for families in need is something I’m incredibly proud of,” she said.
Rose’s Angels’ success depends on the support of donors and volunteers. Letters were sent out to partner agencies, family, friends and community members in January, with donations collected in February. Richmond Jewish Day School hosted a hygiene collection drive, and grocery gift cards were purchased last month. This month, all the donations were packaged and delivered by volunteers to the recipient agencies.
“My parents and grandparents … showed me that giving back isn’t just a kind gesture – it’s a responsibility we have to one another as part of a community,” said Cohen.
To learn more about or donate to Rose’s Angels, email [email protected] or call the Kehila Society of Richmond at 604-241-9270.
– Courtesy Rose’s Angels