by Sharon Longaker

The Lutheran World Relief (LWR) Western Washington In-Gathering took place at Our Redeemer’s on May 2nd and 3rd. Churches from across the region—from Aberdeen to Bellingham, and from the Cascades to the Coast—gathered to deliver their kits and quilts to our parking lot.

Thanks to the incredible efforts of so many volunteers from many congregations, we successfully filled one full shipping container and nearly completed a second! 

Our Redeemer’s contributed 80 personal care kits to this effort! A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all the generous donors who provided the items that made up these kits. Special thanks to America Mejia, Janet Whitfield, and the Running family for their vital support—both in preparing food for the loading crew and helping with the actual packing. Your help made a big difference. Truly, it takes a village!

Looking ahead, our next LWR loading will take place in November, with a focus on school kits. While it’s still unclear whether tariffs will impact school supply costs, please keep an eye out for back-to-school sales. A collection basket and list of needed items will be placed near the front entrance. Thank you again for your continued support!