I’ve resumed my weekly readings at the Mansion; Maria is preparing to start her art classes there again. We were both delighted to get back there.

I want to get to work helping the people there out; they’ve had a hellish year, worse than I quite imagined. So I’m asking for help.

The residents are a bit shell-shocked, they need some reasons to laugh and smile.

Today, I talked about the Amish – the residents were fascinated – and began reading from an Amish romance story. Maria talked about Robin, the lamb.

Because of Covid-19, only six residents are allowed, and we all needed to be six feet apart.

There are nearly a dozen new residents, and a number of them have particular needs – clothes, belts, socks, summer shirts.

I want to make reservations for two boat rides on Lake George – one small excursion in July, a bigger one for our fourth year in September or October, pandemic permitting.

The boat rides are opening up again this summer.

All of the residents are now vaccinated and frequently tested. They urgently need help getting out of the building and out for some outings – picnics, museums, etc.

We need more personal care supplies – lotions, shampoos, bacterial disinfectants, combs.

We support Tania Woodward’s makeover and make-up program, a huge morale boost; we purchased $300 in make-up supplies, we will soon need garden supplies so the residents can get outside and build their gardens.

The break room for the aides needs some support – coffee, a fan, some small decorations.

The Mansion Fund is down to $677, lower than I like it to be. I’m reluctant to buy special lunches or snacks; I like to keep money in reserve for emergencies.

We need Food Cards for some of the aides. You can purchase Wal-Mart Food Cards here. Please make sure to activate them via e-mail a day or so after purchase.

The gift cards need to be sent to me at the farm: Jon Katz, 2502 State Route, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816.

If you prefer,  you can donate to me via Paypal, [email protected], or Venmo, [email protected]. I will buy the cards for you.

Please remember to activate them if they are over a certain amount, I hate the idea of wasting your money. Not all the cards need activating, just watch for Wal-Mart e-mails.

I hate to ask for help, but the cards are urgently needed. They have been small miracles for people who need them.  Some of the aides are working harder than ever and are struggling to keep their families together.

We are in better shape with the refugee families, many of the parents are finding work again, and their food insecurities are diminishing for now. Thanks so much for helping them get through this very difficult time.

I’m turning to the needs of the refugee children as they enter the summer. I’m going to Bishop Maginn for the first time in a year on Thursday. It’s a joy to be getting rolling again without so much worry and trouble.

We are watching four or five families, but things seem easing or at least beginning to ease.

These cards are critical to keeping between 3 and 4 of the Mansion aides afloat and feeding their families. Your help is appreciated.

If you wish to help beef up the Mansion Fund, you can donate via Paypal, [email protected], or Venmo, [email protected]. Any amount, large or small, will be appreciated.

As I return to the Mansion, I am learning about the new and existing residents’ needs. Some interesting people, they have great stories to tell. I’m going to be working on catching up and can use your help if you can give it.