A farmer who received drought support from our SCAS Chefs (Matt, Adam and Steve) has written this letter thanking everyone involved in the SCAS community …
Firstly, I would like to thank all of the families from St Columba Anglican School that took the time out of their holidays to visit us and deliver the donated groceries, all of the people that donated groceries to your drought appeal and the children at St Columba Anglican School that drew pictures and sent messages of support to us.
I was overwhelmed, humbled and speechless when you all arrived and told me that you were here to help. None of you would listen to my polite refusal and you all simply began to show how much you cared. The kindness, support and understanding that you all gave me, even the children, is something that really touched my heart. Thank you.
That day, before you arrived, was a tougher day than most, and somehow after you left when I unpacked the groceries, re-read the children’s messages and remembered your kind and encouraging words the remainder of the day seemed to get easier. I must confess my portion of the Cheesels and the chocolate bar did not last 24 hours. They are the trimmings that aren’t on my shopping list at present. Paul and Laura did finish them when they returned.
I hope you all don’t mind but, I redistributed some of your groceries to other families that have not received any support as yet and they too are finding the current drought conditions challenging. I simply thought this would continue your work and spread your support further. I put a note in the boxes, from the words of Clay Walker’s song, and it read as follows;
“You don’t owe me a thing, I’ve been there too.
Someone once helped me out, the way I’m helping you.
If you really want to pay me back, here’s what to do,
don’t let the chain of love end with you.” Clay Walker.
I honestly think your visit has been a turning point for all of us around Barraba. On the 5/6th October we had 22mm of rain and on the 11/12th October we had 23mm. Individually these are the highest rainfall figures we have had since 6th March this year and so far this is the second highest monthly total for this year. We now have a little green pick, like the grass I was watering at the yards for the poddies to eat. It is still a long way from breaking he drought however it is a start. We now have water in the tanks and renewed hope.
I hope you all enjoyed meeting the poddies, Elle, Anna and Spence, the dogs and Mr Bean. If you think it is appropriate and the children would like it, I can give you updates of the poddies growth and development and pictures of the farm.
Once again I would like to say thank you to everyone that has been involved. I will be forever grateful that I was at home when you all arrived and I got to meet so many wonderful people. Your act of kindness and generosity will always be remembered.
Yours Sincerely,
Pennie Vary