Ms. Jacqueline Lovinggood is a genuine giving person.
She’s been deeply rooted in helping others since she was a child growing up poor in 1935. Giving surrounded her from her mother, who always did charitable work in the community and church, to the community. She recalls, “My school always arranged a Thanksgiving Food Drive. My church supplied baskets during Thanksgiving and Christmas. I received hand me downs for clothes. Also, my neighbors allowed me to come over when I was hungry when my mother wasn’t home.”
Ms. Lovinggood’s resume is quite impressive. She spent 40 years in the public school system, 17 years as a Physical Education teacher then 27 years as a counselor. During her time at H.D. Woodson High School, Ms. Lovinggood helped many students receive scholarships for college and join the military.
Currently, she contributes to the nursing home where her sister resides. She makes sure the residents have proper clothing, birthday presents, and anything else they may need.
Giving comes naturally to Ms. Lovinggood. She also doesn’t ask for much in return. “The only thing I ask of people is to thank me for whatever I’m doing. If you can pay me back fine if you can’t that’s fine too. I never give and expect anything in return. My mother taught me that the people you help won’t always be able to return the favor.”
Speaking of her mother, Ms. Lovinggood calls taking care of her, when she had Alzheimer’s, as her finest hour. “I took care of my mother for ten years until she was put into a nursing home at 91 years old. No sacrifice was too great for me to make since my mother took care of us.” She continues, “I used to give seminars for caretakers of Alzheimer’s. I have a two-page informational guide on caretaking if anyone is interested.”
It is an honor to highlight Ms. Lovinggood as she supports in her consistent giving to The Widow’s Pantry with her handmade scarves and hats in the winter for the homeless and providing new men’s in the summer.
If interested in receiving information on being a caretaker for someone who has Alzheimer’s, please contact us “The Widow’s Pantry” so that we may forward Ms. Lovinggood’s guide on how to take care of Alzheimer’s patrons.
Article submitted by Tarnisha Carter
