SUPPORT BARBARA COOLEY WHO SERVED ALEXANDRIA'S HOMELESS

Barbara Cooley, who has spent decades helping the homeless and needy in Alexandria, now needs our help to stay in the assisted living facility which has been her home for the last five years. When Barbara retired as a Prince William County teacher in 2003, she began a new life of service spearheading a bag lunch program for Alexandria’s homeless six days a week for more than 15 years, regularly serving more than 40 people. She befriended the participants as “family,” greeting each person by name, sitting and listening to them, and occasionally having to keep the peace. At times, she extended the program’s reach by assisting with transportation, storage, clothing and medical attention. The bag lunch program continues today as many have stepped up to fill the role once held by Barbara. To quote the Reverend Collins Asonye of Meade Memorial Episcopal Church—

It was evident that the Alexandria homeless community held her in high regard. We acknowledge her significant contribution to our Bag Lunch Program mission of ministering to both body and soul. Her dedication and support were crucial in sustaining the ministry, and we deeply appreciate her unconditional donation of time and love.

Additionally Barbara was a leader in reinvigorating the prayer and service sisterhood of Daughters of the King when she joined Alexandria’s Christ Church, often bringing prayer requests from many of the people she had served in the Bag Lunch Program. One of Barbara’s first new Daughters said, The way she talked about prayer made it really come alive. She revitalized Daughters of the King. The Daughters grew from a handful of active members to more than 40 today, who continue in Barbara’s footsteps serving the Alexandria community.

Although very little could keep Barbara down, the effects of diabetes and other illnesses have resulted in physical and cognitive challenges which confine her to a wheelchair and require 24/7 assisted care. Her monthly expenses exceed her social security and teacher’s pension by more than $2000. She has exhausted her savings and is in dire need of help. Our goal is to raise at least $30,000 to allow this beautiful spirit to remain in her home. Barbara’s closest relative, her sister Carolyn, oversees her care with love, but does not have the financial resources to cover her assisted living expenses. Barbara Cooley has given so much to so many, and now we ask on her behalf that you give generously back to her.