The Angels of Grafton

Spring was in the air when a group of retired ladies from St. Peter & Paul, Bechyne Catholic Church was making the hour-long trek from Grafton to Langdon. Their objective? The local quilt shop—a destination they frequent together to gather fabric and supplies for prayer quilts. Only this trip was going to be different; this time they were going to take a surprise detour through Choice Bank.

Months earlier, founding members Patty Bata and Debby Karas had submitted a wish through the Choice Bank Wishing Well Program asking for $150.00 to go towards more fabric and supplies for their prayer quilts. Typically, they purchase almost all of the supplies from out of their own pockets. In their wish, they also detailed the group’s mission of passion to comfort all in the community who are sick or experiencing challenges in their lives regardless of denomination.

Since their inception 5 years ago, the ladies have been diligently meeting on a regular basis at the church. They bring their sewing machines, fabric, supplies, and good company as they sit together with a common cause. Some days they’ll be cutting fabric squares and piecing together detailed quilts while other days are focused on fleece tie blankets. Once each quilt is completed, they are blessed and given out to people in need. As of today, they have given out over 70 quilts and counting!

Weeks before their trip to the quilt shop, Patty had been contacted by Tara McFadden, SVP, Chief Compliance Officer from Choice Bank.

“Patty, we’re so excited to tell you that not only has your wish been granted, but instead of $150.00 we’d like to make it $500.00!” Tara said.

For such a small request, Patty was overcome with gratitude. Her thoughts immediately went towards the other ladies in her group and how they would react once they found out. For the rest of the phone call, Patty and Tara came up with a plan of action to surprise them.

The day of the trip soon came around and with Patty in the lead they found themselves pulling into the parking lot of Choice Bank in Langdon. Expecting their arrival, Tara happily greeted them and ushered them inside where they were presented with the good news and their check.

Overwhelmed with appreciation the group of ladies couldn’t help but shed a few tears. As long as they had enough fabric to go around, it meant they could continue to share their light and make an impact on the lives of so many in their community.

The Choice Bank Wishing Well is accepting wishes! Ready to cast yours? Visit choicewishingwell.com and let us know who you would like to help out in your community.