Financial Assistance, Give Back, Sister's Success
Laurie Chambers Welling's Story
12/1/2020
Gardening has always been a passion for Laurie Chambers Welling, Oregon. After a divorce 11 years ago, Laurie went back to school to earn a degree in horticulture, something she’d always wanted to do. She became the manager of Retreat, a plant and home decor shop in Snohomish, Washington. She also got remarried. Her husband, Paul, is a chef instructor at Sur La Table.
When the novel coronavirus made its way to the state of Washington, many businesses closed and Laurie was furloughed. She was uncertain if her employer would be able to bring her back after the economic impact on small businesses. With restaurants closed, Paul was also out of work. But Laurie had more immediate concerns: She was worried about paying her rent. She applied for an emergency grant from the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation and received it within one week.“It gives me so much peace of mind,” Laurie says.
Since 1922, the Kappa Foundation’s Rose McGill Grants have helped members like Laurie who face unexpected financial challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kappa Foundation provided over $160,000 in aid to nearly 200 members.
With the continued support and generosity of members like you, the Kappa Foundation is able to help our members during these trying times. If you are in a position to give, consider the Kappa Foundation. Your gift will make an immediate impact on a sister’s life.
Please don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
If you are in need of assistance, don’t hesitate to apply for a grant. Laurie has a message to others navigating any period of uncertainty: “Please don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.”
Rose McGill, Toronto, embodied the best of our Kappa sisterhood. It’s sisters, whom you may never have met, who stand by your side. While these are extraordinary times, it is heartwarming to see Kappas staying true — creating connections and holding up the bonds of sisterhood around the world.
