Widow’s Purse holding two programs to lift up women working through loss

Walking through life after the loss of a spouse is difficult at best. Widow’s Purse is willing to share that walk. The nonprofit was designed to aid widow’s as they grieve, reestablish their lives, and recover.

To that end, the organization will present “New Year, New You,” an evening of pampering, support, and case for widows, on Wed., Jan. 15. According to founder Sunah Flores-Guillaume, this is the second time the event has been offered, thanks to popular demand.

“We are doing ‘New Year, New You’ again because everybody loved it last year, including the people who came to give and love on widows,” said Flores-Guillaume. “This year, we have a hair stylist. We have a masseuse. We’ll have people doing nails, facials. I'm really excited about that.”

The event includes various beauty services, food, fellowship, and entertaining activities, and it all is offered free to widows. The only catch is that those wishing to indulge in beauty services call ahead to schedule a session.

“We want to say, good job, widow,” said Flores-Guillaume. “You made it through. It was hard for you, but come here. Let us love on you. Let us rejuvenate you. Let us renew your spirits!”

“New Year, New You” takes place Wed., Jan.15, from 6-9 p.m. at Woodland Church of God, 3401 S. Webster St. Call 765-271-4911 to schedule services.

The love for widows doesn’t stop with that. Widow’s Purse returns in February with “Single Mingle” on Fri., Feb. 7. But this event isn’t limited to widows. Singles and couples are invited to attend, meet new friends, and enjoy a slew of activities, including an unusual auction.

“We're opening it up to couples because last year, as people were leaving, they requested it if we did this again,” said Flores-Guillaume.

Since everyone attending may seek different experiences, Single Mingle will adapt accordingly. Flores-Guillaume said that people attending will be given a necklace of beads when they first arrive. The color of the necklace will signal to others what kind of interaction is desired.

“There are three different colored necklaces,” said Flores-Guillaume. “The white one says, ‘I came with my own crew. I'm not interested.’ The pink one says, ‘Hey, I want to be a friend. I want to meet some friends.’ The red necklace, however, is ‘I’m available.’

Flores-Guillaume indicated that people in attendance last year mingled without difficulty, but the necklaces just add a little fun to the event. There also will be dating games, live music, dancing, food, and a cash bar. But the main event will likely be the auction.

Widow’s Purse will auction off the services of several volunteers who agreed to offer their skills and expertise to the winning bidders. Yes, they are auctioning off people, as odd as that may sound.

“Let me explain,” said Flores-Guillaume, with a laugh. “My husband has signed up to be auctioned off as a handyman. He is a journeyman electrician. We have a licensed masseuse, a certified tax preparer. These people are already signed up to be auctioned off. People just need to come and bid for their services. It might end up being cheaper than hiring out the work.”

The goal of all the activities at Single Mingle and New Year, New You is to answer the problem of loneliness for widows.

“Single Mingle is a fundraiser, for instance, but both of these events equip us to minister to widows,” said Flores-Guillaume. “And it’s our way of saying loneliness is not just a widow thing. It happens even with married couples who are bored or don't know how to interact with each other. So, come on out. Have fun with us. Maybe we can help you get back that spark!”

Single Mingle will take place Fri., Feb. 7, at 6 p.m. at Rhine Hall Entertainment and Event Venue, 507 N. Union St. General admission to the event is $30, and VIP tickets are available for $45, which include a free drink and priority seating. Registration to this event is required by scanning the QR code included on the Single Mingle graphic accompanying this story.