Congregations across north Georgia will soon support the work of Wesley Woods and the older adults in its care with a special observance and offering collection on Mother's Day, which is celebrated on Sunday, May 14, 2017. Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson has designated this day as Wesley Woods Sunday in the more than 900 churches of the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Funds raised will help the over 75% of the more than 1,800 Wesley Woods older adult residents, in 10 different communities, who need financial assistance to remain in their homes, receive needed assisted living, and access meal plans. Forty percent of these seniors are living below the poverty level.

"Imagine how it feels when you have a place to lay down at night knowing that you're safe and cared for. Just imagine that feeling. I challenge our community to create that for somebody else. When you give to Wesley Woods, that is exactly what you are doing," said Rev. Dr. Byron E. Thomas, pastor-in-charge for Ben Hill United Methodist Church and long-time Wesley Woods supporter.

"At Wesley Woods, we exhaust all resources so that our seniors never have to leave what has become their home just because of their financial circumstances," said Tracy Crump, president and CEO of the Foundation of Wesley Woods. "This unique policy is only made possible by the generous support we receive from donors and the annual Mother's Day Offering. Without this, these seniors will face losing their homes and independence."

While churches responded generously in 2016, and helped raise over $245,000, the need for benevolence care still exceeded the amount required to meet the housing and care needs of all its residents.

Wesley Woods is seeking more support in 2017 so it can provide appropriate care for all those in need.

"The annual Mother's Day offering is a special opportunity for people to pay tribute to the women who helped shape their lives," stated Crump. "Even if the women who have cared for you may not be living at a Wesley Woods community, those who do make their home with us played an important role in the life of someone who may not be able to give. We hope you will join with us and show your support for those in need."