With spring in the air, Sweet Charity Resale Boutique began selling birdhouses that are hand-painted by the children residing at the Nest Domestic Violence Shelter in Ruidoso Downs. The birdhouses, paint and craft supplies were donated to the Nest by Georgia Guse, who lives in Washington State.Six months ago, Guse began a “supplies drive” at Guse’s Gourmet Coffee in Longview, Washington. Donations flooded in and filled up her donation boxes, which she then shipped off to the children at the Nest. Guse’s involvement with the Nest came by way of her close friend, HEAL Executive Director Coleen Widell.
“Everything I hear about the Nest is so inspiring. I wanted to find a way to become involved and help. The birdhouse painting project is both therapeutic and a fun recreation for the children,” said Guse.
The proceeds generated from the sale of the birdhouses are being earmarked for the residents of the shelter.
The reaction to the birdhouses featured at Sweet Charity was so positive that HEAL Board Member Josie Powell offered to auction some of the birdhouses at one of her art festivals this summer. Powell plans to enlist the creative talents of Ruidoso’s local artists to transform each of these birdhouses to a masterpiece.
“We have so many talented individuals in our community and our artist’s community is a particularly generous one. They are always ready to lend a helping hand,” explains Powell.
One does not need to be an artist to complete a birdhouse. All levels of artisans are encouraged to drop by Josie’s Framery this month to pick up a birdhouse. Josie’s Framery is located in Ruidoso at 2917 Sudderth Drive. Completed birdhouses should be returned to Josie’s Framery by June 30.
The children’s birdhouses will continue to be sold at Sweet Charity Resale Boutique on Highway 70 in Ruidoso Downs.
The Nest Domestic Violence Shelter is open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Emergency shelter and services are provided to any individual in need, without regard to race, religion or residency status. All services are free and confidential. If you or someone you know needs help, please call our toll free hotline at 1-866-378-6378 to speak to a professionally trained Nest advocate.