WS Chronicle

By Judie Holcomb-Pack

The tradition of sending cards dates back to 1843 when the first card was sent in England. It took a few years (and Hallmark) to create the tradition in America that has continued since the early 1900s. Even with the recent creation of virtual greeting cards and the increase in the cost of postage, people still enjoy the tradition of sending – and receiving – a card during the holidays. It’s just not the same putting up a printout of a virtual card, or a text or email greeting, as it is standing up a beautiful card on the mantle or taping cards around the door frame for all to see and enjoy throughout the season. 

For older adults who may have a difficult time getting to the store to purchase cards or to the post office for stamps, or who may have developed a weakness in their hands that make writing difficult, Crisis Control Ministry has the solution “in hand,” so to speak. This year they have all their Holiday Honor Cards from past years, as well as designs from this year, for a donation of just $5 each. And they have volunteers who will personally sign the card with your name or message and hand address the envelope, then put a holiday stamp on the envelope and mail the card for you, all for just a $5 donation per card which goes to support the work of the ministry. The inside of each card has the message “A gift has been given in your honor to Crisis Control Ministry by (your name). This gift will enable our neighbors in crisis to share in the bounty of God’s love for all people during this season of sharing.”

Many people who order cards have done so for years, such as Donna Emmary. “I would like to be generous with my donations during the holidays, but living on a fixed income I have to be smart about my contributions. It gives me a warm feeling to give small contributions in the names of my family and friends, knowing that the total sum will go to a respected local organization like Crisis Control Ministry,” said Emmary. “Every year I hear from cousins and far-away friends who tell me how much they appreciate the beautiful card and the contribution in their name. This one gesture really makes me feel like Santa Claus!”

This year there are ten card designs, all by local artists, including William Mangum, Barbara Campbell and Beth Jones. Just make your list with names, addresses, and how the card should be signed, and Crisis Control will do the rest. Order cards online at crisiscontrol.org/holidaycards or call Angie Wilson at 336-727-9976. Orders received by Dec. 19 will be delivered by Dec. 24.

Blank cards can also be purchased so you can address and send if you would like. You can pick up cards at their Winston-Salem location at 200 E.Tenth Street or their Kernersville location at 431 W. Bodenhamer St. Cards are also available at several retail locations. A list is available at www.crisiscontrol.org/holidaycards.

All proceeds from the sale of the cards support the work of Crisis Control Ministry to assist individuals who are facing a financial crisis, assisting with food, rent/mortgage, utilities and prescription medication. For more information, visit www.crisiscontrol.org.