Altrusa International of Mexico, Missouri, Inc. met on Sept. 25 at The Oaks for its program meeting. The meeting was called to order by co-president Gina Raines followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. There were 18 members in attendance along with two guests.

Committee reports were as follows: Judy Kelly reported on the Books & Bear program. They are planning a launch event on Nov. 6 at the Audrain County Courthouse Community Room from 5-7 p.m. Agencies will be invited to this exciting reveal. Refreshments will be served. A book reading will be held and coping skills will be demonstrated with angel wings. 

Hospitality sent around a sign-up sheet for the Christmas Party. The Annual Auction is Nov. 13. A work sign-up sheet was passed around. Members were encouraged to ask friends and family to attend.

Richard Duffner, with the Agape House in Vandalia, gave an informational talk about what the Agape House is and the importance of it to the community. The home was opened in Vandalia in 2004 and provides affordable overnight lodging for families that are visiting offenders in the Vandalia and Bowling Green prisons. 

Thus far, they have had around 11,000 visitors at the home. Families from all over Missouri and out of state have a safe place to stay while they visit with their incarcerated loved ones. The cost for the families to stay there is $5 for adults and $2 for children. 

The Agape House is constantly doing maintenance of the home and have gradually been working on upgrades. It costs approximately $2,500 per month to run the house. They receive donations from churches, individuals, United Way, Knights of Columbus and Altrusa. Items that they currently need and would appreciate are monetary, bottled water, laundry soap, unscented dryer sheets, snacks, cleaning supplies and microwave popcorn.

Members gave Happy Moments and recited the benediction to close the meeting.

For those  interested in attending a meeting, visit theAltrusa International of Mexico’s Facebook page or email mexicoaltrusa@gmail.com.