Scarf in the Park

On cold, blustery, winter days most of us can find warmth and comfort by having hats, gloves, and warm clothes to wear. However, not everyone in our community have such blessings. The Guess Foundation is working to spread warm Christmas cheer to those in need in Paducah.

The fifth “Scarf in the Park Project” will be held on Christmas Eve this year. Donors can bring items beginning at 1 pm. Clotheslines will be hung throughout Dolly McNutt Plaza, located across from Paducah City Hall. Volunteers will hang the donated scarves, hats, gloves, and socks - each with a personal note attached to them. Items are hung for the homeless and families in need to pick up. As many of our homeless residents spend time at the McCracken County Library, the Dolly McNutt Plaza is the perfect location.

Better to Give Than to Receive

This event is about the givers and receivers passing one another in a spirit of love and friendship. Some of the receivers of these precious gifts are in attendance and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa with givers. However, everyone leaves soon after to respect the privacy of those in need who wish to remain anonymous.

“We know there are people in our community who will have nowhere to go on Christmas Eve. We also know they will be cold, and likely sad and lonely,” said Morgan Guess, Co-Founder of the Guess Foundation. “We thought Christmas Eve would be the best day to show them they are seen and cared about. No one should go without a present, and we believe no one should be cold. We want this project to give those with the most needs in our community a way to stay warm and give them hope.”

Last year 1,000 items were donated, and all gone within 48 hours! Inspired by the kindness of those who are willing to help, organizers are hoping to collect more this year.

Guess Foundation Co-Founder Susan Guess said, “This project began in Indiana and quickly spread around the country. Each of us as friends and neighbors should continuously look for even the smallest ways we can reach out to those in need throughout the year, especially around the holidays.”

Can’t Make It?

Christmas Eve is a busy day, and perhaps your schedule with family events doesn’t leave time for you to attend. You can still help! Collection locations are needed. Churches, businesses and organizations are encouraged to collect items and to serve as a location for citizens to drop off donations. Cash donations are also appreciated and the Guess Foundation will purchase items.

Join the Effort

“We are humbled that this event has already become a treasured tradition in our community,” said Morgan. “We believe that Christmas is truly about giving. This is a meaningful and memorable way to be a part of something bigger than ourselves.”

Organizers are hoping that the day will be sunny and bright as it has for past events. To ensure items will not ruin due to snow or rain, follow the Guess Anti-Bullying Facebook page for any changes due to inclement weather.

Personalized messages are pinned on each item. If you would like to write notes, donate an item, or host a collection box, please contact Susan Guess at susan@paducahbank.com or 270.210.2434.