Tuesday, August 14, 2018

Ben’s Stockings of Hope Has Workday in Maryville

On Sunday, Ben’s Stockings of Hope held a workday in Maryville to prepare for Christmas. It was founded in 2012 and is now in its sixth year of existence.

In October, 2011, Ben McIntyre, at 22, was killed in a car accident that took the life of two other young people. As part of dealing with her grief, his mother, Marsha Martin, founded Ben’s Stockings of Hope. She started out by making stockings out of Ben’s clothes and giving them to family members for Christmas. Ben’s favorite part of Christmas was waking up in the morning, sneaking downstairs, and digging into his Christmas stocking. Growing up, he loved Ninja Turtles, Batman and Robin, video games, reading, and fishing. At North Nodaway, he was active in Drum Line, football, and the school play.

In an effort to bring Christmas joy to others, Ben’s Stockings of Hope was created in October 2012. All profits go directly to stuffing stockings for local children in need. They offer a variety of stockings made from shirts and jeans for sale, and they can also make to order. They take donations of old shirts and jeans to make into stockings.

As part of their fundraising this year, this will be holding a Silly Sock and Headgear 5K Fun Walk/Run, starting at the First United Methodist Church in Maryville on September 22nd. Check-in will be 7:15 and start time will be 8 am. Bring your silly socks and headgear of your choosing; prizes will be awarded to the best dressed.

Cost for registration will be $20; mail payments to Ben’s Stockings of Hope, 807 East McFarland Avenue, Hopkins, MO 64461. Entries must be received by September 6th to be guaranteed a t-shirt. Snacks and water will be provided; the event is not times, and no prizes will be awarded.

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