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Fredericksburg couple brings donations to Hurricane Michael victims

Elizabeth A. Elliott | Catholic Herald Staff Writer

Delainey Slaughter reacts while helping clear out her father’s destroyed market Oct. 11 after Hurricane Michael swept through Panama City, Fla. CNS/Dan Anderson, EPA

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Moved with compassion for those suffering from the effects of
Hurricane Michael, Mary and Doran Sanger, parishioners of St. Mary of the
Immaculate Conception Church in Fredericksburg, are bringing supplies and
helping with the cleanup of St. Dominic Church in Panama City, Fla., Oct. 28.
Doran will drive with his 15-year-old son Gabriel.

According to Sanger, St. Dominic’s sustained a lot of damage,
including broken stained glass, water damage through the sanctuary, interior
and exterior damage to the apartments, and the rectory has a damaged roof,
collapsed ceiling and water damage.

The Sangers lived with their three children in Panama City for 16
years before moving to Fredericksburg two years ago. They still own a home
there.

St. Dominic’s holds many memories for the Sangers — they were
married there, their children received the sacraments there and Mary worked as
a Life Teen coordinator with youth ministries.

“It is no surprise to me that after the hurricane St. Dominic’s
pastor, Father Michael Nixon, and all the many workers and volunteers put their
boot straps on and decided to make St. Dominic a disaster hub for the community
of Panama City,” said Mary. “They are in the business (of offering) hope, love
and charity and they are shining examples of God’s love.”

Mary said St. Dominic’s has 4,100 people coming through their
parking lot seeking assistance every day.

“When you see something like this going on at a place you called
home for so many years, it is only natural, I believe, to want to help,” she
said. “It really is our second home.” 

Mary said baby formula and wipes, trash bags, and cleaning
supplies, feminine and hygiene products, especially deodorant, are needed. They
also are in need of canned goods with pop tops. “Of course, in order to rebuild
they will definitely need monetary donations,” said Mary. 

Holy Cross Academy in Fredericksburg and St. Mary’s are inviting
families and parish ministries to contribute to this collection.

“We are very lucky to be a part of such a generous and loving
school and church community in Fredericksburg,” said Mary. “My husband has
requested donations through his work.”

Doran’s boss at Harley Davidson is donating a 4×4 truck to help
transport the supplies. 

Find out more

To donate money, go to bit.ly/hurricane1018.

 

 

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