NIFRW joins statewide book drive
(Courtesy photo) IFRW President Charlene Matheson, left, presents a wall of books to St. Luke’s patient housing manager Gabrielle Moore.
When the Idaho Federation of Republican Women learned that bookshelves were bare at the hospital housing facilities of Boise’s St. Luke’s and Mountain State Tumor Institute, members launched a statewide book drive with the assistance of North Idaho Federated Republican Women. The addition of the historic Idaho Heritage Inn to the long-serving Bishop Foote Guest House resulted in more beds for guests, but fewer books.
Now, with the help of the IFRW, the bookshelves at both facilities serving patients, their families and caretakers are overflowing.
Hundreds of hardback and paperback books arrived in Boise and were delivered to director Gabrielle Moore. Moore, who oversees both houses was delighted. Guests from St Luke’s, MSTI and the Veterans Home now have a large selection of books to read during their stays. If a book is not finished, a guest can take it home. Books can be donated to local community libraries when finished.
“Three important initiatives of the IFRW are serving and helping Idahoans, supporting veterans and increasing literacy,” Shirlayne Corder, IFRW chair of Caring for America, said.
Response to the worthwhile project, which involves all three initiatives, has been so successful that IFRW President Charlene Matheson said the project will be ongoing during her presidency. IFRW members are grateful to Moore for the opportunity to help out, Matheson said.
Since 1972, the Bishop Foote House has provided convenient, economical housing for patients, families and companions of those undergoing treatment at St. Luke’s, St. Luke’s Mountain State Tumor Institute and the Veterans Administration. The facilities serve Idahoans and visitors with a community of support during times of medical challenges.
The North Idaho Federated Republican Women meet at 5:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month at Holiday Inn Express, Ponderay. For information, telephone Mary Jo Ambrosiani at 208-290-4716; email deburrqueen@cygnusaero.com; or visit nifrw.org.
The Idaho Federation of Republican Women promotes Republican principles and educates Republican women in the governmental process. The federation provides assistance to local Republican women’s clubs.