Helping the Little People: the Forgotten Seniors
Tara A. Spears
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted” could be the mission statement for the caring trio of Magic Handymen in Action. MHA is a small group dedicated to helping people in need, primarily the elderly, by providing them with necessities they are lacking such as: home repairs, furniture, bedding, shoes, medical, food. These generous ladies- Maria Alvarez Rico, Norma Mendoza and Amy Huddleston- devote their efforts to making life a little easier for housebound people.
The Process: How the group got started and developed its focus occurred when Maria wanted to help feed her neighbors during the pandemic shutdown. “I met so many seniors when I was volunteering at the soup kitchen located in the La Penita Senior Center. I saw a need to assist these deserving people” said Maria. “There are many who can’t get out of their house to come for food, so we started to bring food to them.” The ladies said that while most families take care of their old people, some elders do not have family in the area. “We decided to focus on those living outside of town,” Norma added. When the soup kitchens discontinued services, Maria and Norma continued to cook and deliver hot meals daily for 12 individuals.
You need to look closely at the photo, right, in order to realize the man has both legs amputated. MHA has four people that would greatly appreciate having greater mobility via a wheelchair. These four are confined to their dwelling because they cannot afford a walker, wheelchair, or even a cane. If you can lend one, donate one, bring one from a thrift store, it would so improve quality of life for these folks! Contact either Amy: huddlesa@ohsu.edu or Maria via Facebook messenger. They have a FB page that has messaging, too: manitas magicas en accion.
“Each week we go to one house and spend the day working: repairing, cleaning, whatever is required. Our request for items varies because each situation is different,” said Maria. A couple of weeks ago the trio installed a roof for an elderly woman living by herself. Another week they provided a new mattress for a paralyzed woman who is cared for by her elderly mother. It might be the 21st century but some still do not have the basic necessities.
Amy explained for the three of them: “It gives us such satisfaction to make life a little better for these humble people. We are given hugs and blessings in return.” To us, what we provide might seem like a small thing but to the needy we shouldn’t underestimate the difference kindness can make in the lives of others. MHA simply tries to step forward, reach out and help. Each week they provide service to someone that might need a lift. When money is tight, even toilet tissue is a luxury.
The only source of revenue so far has been the three gals asking for individual items as needed. They donate the food six days a week from their own pocket. To generate money for big items MHA has held a bake sale. However, the need is ongoing and increasing through word of mouth. Other little people who need help are waiting for assistance.
In a community known for its altruism and compassion, the three friends that comprise manitas magical en accion prove that the good gals wear masks. Their belief that any effort made for the happiness of others lifts us above ourselves is a powerful ideal. Thank you, thank you for helping the little people!
Contact Maria or Amy on Facebook, or visit their page to make a donation.
Cell phones: Maria (Spanish) 327 109 3029;
Amy (bilingual) 503 7898543;
Norma (Sp) 493 118 4391
