God’s Littlest Angels, a local ministry that takes donated bridal and formalwear and turns it into burial and bereavement gowns for infants, is celebrating its 10th year this month.
To mark their milestone, the organization will host a public open house from 12-3 p.m. Sunday at Owensboro Christian Church, 2818 New Hartford Road.
Founded by Mary Fogle and Tammy Boarman, the organization has donated more than 5,000 gowns to some 28 hospitals spanning from northern Indiana to central Florida. The organization which began with just two volunteers has now expanded to 26 volunteers who make gowns, beaded bracelets, and blankets.
“I never dreamed that our ministry would grow and reach the number of families that we do now,” Fogle said. “Of course, it would not be possible to expand the way we have without our capable volunteers and the support of Owensboro Christian Church.”
Gowns are received from all over the United States. According to Boarman, they have received gowns from Washington to Maine.
“A woman’s wedding gown is special and I think our donors are pleased that their gown will be turned into something beautiful and comforting for grieving families,” Boarman said.
Volunteer Marge Williams of Owensboro said she knew the first time she saw one of the angel gowns, she wanted to be a part of this group.
“I am not a seamstress, so I just started out doing whatever they needed me to do,” she said. “I began removing beads from the wedding gowns and now I make bracelets from the beads, one for the baby and one for the mother. I have several purposes in my life and God’s Littlest Angels is one of my most important. I am proud to be associated with this group of ladies and the work we do.”
The dress drop-off location in Owensboro is the Lourdes Parish Office, 4029 Frederica Street.
