There are two definitions of the word community. The first is the literal that says, “a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common.” The second is described as, “a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.”
When it comes to community Oakdale has the second version perfected. When it comes to a crisis Oakdale knows how to band together and get what needs to be done, done.
With the recent pandemic of COVID-19 and the impact on the Oakdale community wether it be the prison, hospital or essential retail workers such as those that work at Buddys or Wal-Mart, the community came together to ensure the safety of those who have to be on the front lines.
Rita Perry and Melissa Shreeman have taken to making fabric masks for loved ones that have to be in the middle of the mess. They started getting requests so decided to up the ante. They began making masks for any person who requested for free. They have had people come forward and donate material and elastic, they have donated their time or skills for cutting, ironing and sewing, they even had some donate food for the workers or money for materials.
According to Perry they have made over 600 masks in just two weeks of working. “We have shipped masks all over the U.S. including Texas, Maryland, Virgina, Washington D.C. and all over Louisiana.
“We just wanted people to know that there are volunteers coming from all over who are giving their all to ensure the safety of our neighbors,” Perry said. “I may not be able to do much, but I can sew. God has blessed us. We have been able to find all the supplies we have needed with no issues or shortages. We just want to thank everyone for their donations and for those who have to be out in it to know that we are thinking of them.”
