Mail Cheer Program Launches in Winneshiek County

Posted: May 18, 2020

There is a new way to bring cheer to your neighbors here in Winneshiek County. The Mail Cheer Program is a safe way for community members to send or request a positive message through the mail to combat the loneliness and isolation many people are experiencing due to the current pandemic.

“While volunteering with Meals on Wheels, I learned how prevalent social isolation is for so many in our community right now,” said Jessica Hegdahl, coordinator of the program. “People here in Decorah have been so great at stepping up to help each other, and I’m so excited for people who might be isolated to get something fun in the mail to remind them that they’re being thought of as part of our community, even when they need to remain physically distant from others.”

Volunteers with Green Iowa AmeriCorps, in partnership with the Winneshiek Energy District, and the Decorah & Winneshiek Co. Mutual Aid Network have collaborated to create the program. Additional funding support comes from the Winneshiek County Development and Tourism office.

How to participate

Letters can be sent to Mail Cheer Program, PO Box 169, Decorah IA 52101. A volunteer will forward them to people who have requested mail. Anyone wishing to receive mail for themselves or a family member can e-mail Jessica at jessica@energydistrict.org or fill out the form at https://decorahnow.com/mutual-aid-network/ Guidelines for sending mail can be found on the website.

Looking for materials?

A tote box full of artistic materials, cardstock and envelopes is located in the Little Free Craft Closet at ArtHaus. Pick up what you need, and feel free to donate extra supplies you have at home!

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