St. Paul women's club makes giving a holiday tradition

Founded in 1922, the King's Maplewood Women's Club is not only a way for women to build community spirit in their neighborhood — which is bounded by Goodrich and St. Clair Avenues, Cretin Avenue and Mississippi River Boulevard — but also to do good works for the broader community. This year, the 60-member organization continued its tradition of  donating the proceeds of its holiday auction to Keystone Community Services, along with contributing a number of winter hats, mittens, pajamas, underwear and a set of china.

"Over the years we have adapted to the changing times but still emphasize socializing with our neighbors and providing service to the surrounding community," said club historian Meg Ubel.  "I don't know how our connection with Keystone was first made, but I'm sure the fact that Keystone does its valuable work right in our area was a factor."

Margo Kemp Johnson, Keystone's community resource manager, said the club's donation of clothing items was especially important. "We are able to help our clients access existing resources for used clothing, but most everyone would prefer to have new underwear, socks and pamajas whenever possible," she said. "This wonderful group stepped forward and collected these items, which are so appreciated by our clients."