S.W.I.M. Dyeing to collect two-tons

For the third year, Southwest Iowa Ministries (S.W.I.M.) challenged their congregations to collect two-tons (4,000 pounds) of non-perishable food and healthcare items during the Lenten season (Feb. 17 - April 4) for five local food pantries. Southwest Iowa Ministries is composed of the following congregations: Bethesda Lutheran Essex Presbyterian Fremont Lutheran (Nyman), St. John’s Lutheran (Essex), and Strand Lutheran Tabor Lutheran (Wallin)

The six S.W.I.M. congregations are ministered by Pastor Jerry Lamb and Intern Paige Whitney. Whitney pledged to dye her hair if the two-ton goal was met. Voting was done with Jell-O for Whitney’s hair color. Winning Jell-O colors included green, purple, blue and orange.

Not only did members of Southwest Iowa Ministries meet their goal - they exceeded

their goal by collecting 4,848 pounds. This compared to 4,141.5 pounds collected in 2009.

Congregational totals included: Bethesda Lutheran - 592 pounds, Essex Presbyterian - 590 pounds, Fremont Lutheran (Nyman) - 1387 pounds, St. John’s Lutheran (Essex) - 1180 pounds, Strand Lutheran - 599 pounds, Tabor Lutheran (Wallin) - 500 pounds.