Ruth was waiting for me when we got to the Mansion for Bingo night, she tugged at my sleeve. “Jon,” she said in a straightforward way, “my hubbie died a couple of days ago.” Her husband Ken – the two of them were inseparable – died after a long illness and months in and out of nursing homes.

I always found the two of them sitting in the Great Room holding hands, when Ken was ill, we got Ruth a small TV so the two of then could watch it while he was bed bound.

I knew it wouldn’t be long, but I felt for Ruth, she is a sweet and innocent soul. I asked her if there was anything I could do for  her, and she said she needed two sweatshirts, some personal clothes, and also, she would love to get letters from the Army Of Good.

I got the sweatshirts and clothes she wanted, I think Ruth also needs some love and comfort, she would love to get letters from you. You can write her c/o Ruth, The Mansion, 11 S. Union Avenue, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816.

She is not always able to reply. I asked Ruth if she liked to read, she said, she did, but only books with simple words and large type – some likes some illustrated children’s books to me. If you have any you think might be appropriate, it would be great to send them to her.

I was pleased that four different residents came up to me tonight during and after our Bingo game and told of some of the things they needed – large sweatshirts and sweatpants, colored underwear, a good pair of walking shoes.

It took a long time – perhaps a couple of years before the residents would approach me and tell what they need. The staff also checks the residents each week and lets me know of someone’s shoes are torn, or if there are no combs or brushes ( thanks for sending some), or their clothes don’t fit.

This is gratifying work, and inexpensive, I know how to navigate every corner of the Internet and a half-dozen localThrift shops as well.  I am an expert on women’s clothing and sizing. Small Acts Of Great Kindness.

This is work that matters. I hope some of you can write Ruth, she would appreciate it. So would I.