Inspired by a woman who formerly housed foster children, the WPA class of the First Baptist Church of Ironton will hold an arts and crafts auction next month.

Thursday, April 19, 2001

Inspired by a woman who formerly housed foster children, the WPA class of the First Baptist Church of Ironton will hold an arts and crafts auction next month. All proceeds will go toward the construction of a shelter for abused and neglected children.

According to, Ramona McCollister, one of the event’s organizers, Mended Reeds, the group planning to construct the shelter was chosen as the beneficiary.

McCollister said Eva Cardwell of Ironton gave the group the idea to hold the auction. Cardwell, who used to be a foster parent, had a sale last summer and gave some of the proceeds to Mended Reeds and the Ironton City Mission, McCollister said.

"She said she had some quilts left over and asked if the WPA class would hold an auction," McCollister said.

Thinking it was a good idea, members of the WPA class decided to sponsor the auction, which will be held on May 12 at the Ironton City Center.

According to McCollister, arts and crafts of all kinds will be sold off by local auctioneer Bob Sells, who has agreed to donate his services to the event. She added there will be Christian music and other entertainment for the auction-goers to enjoy.

"I think it’s a much-needed facility we’re working toward," McCollister said. "I hope the people of the community will come out and support the event by attending or donating arts and crafts."

To donate arts, crafts, antiques or other collectible items call McCollister or Sue Deeds at 532-8372.