A RAY OF SUNSHINE — Mary J. Albaugh, founder and CEO of Amazing Grace Pillowcases Inc., served as the guest speaker during the Woman’s Club of Steubenville’s April meeting at Scaffidi’s Restaurant and Tavern. The pillowcases are gifts sent to sick children, veterans and nursing home patients. Easter treats were collected during the meeting and will be donated to the Urban Mission to distribute to area children. Those taking part in the meeting included, from left, Albaugh, Charlotte Christian, Eleanor Welday, Kimberly Hahn, Dr. Susanne Curn-Escobar and Linda Wells. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — Mary J. Albaugh, founder and CEO of Amazing Grace Pillowcases Inc., spoke before members of the OFWC, GFWC Woman’s Club of Steubenville during their April luncheon meeting at Scaffidi’s Restaurant and Tavern.

The organization provides colorfully-themed pillowcases as “an act of love and symbol of hope” to sick children, veterans and nursing home patients.

Albaugh informed members that these gifts are meant to “bring a ray of sunshine,” comfort and happiness to individuals who are experiencing life struggles.

Creating the pillowcases is the work and mission of more than 30 women who meet monthly, Albaugh noted.

The women’s works have been distributed to several patients throughout Ohio and West Virginia, as well as the Ronald McDonald House located in Akron and in Pittsburgh.

Club members learned sick children in far-off countries such as Uganda have received these unique pillowcases.

Amazing Grace Pillowcases Inc. is supported by community volunteers and through donations of time, talent and materials.

Those interested in donating to the cause can contact Albaugh at P.O. Box 133, Bloomingdale, OH 43910.

Prior to the luncheon and program, members of the board of directors held a business session conducted by President Iris Craig.

Members brought in jelly hearts and other Easter treats which were taken to the Urban Mission in Steubenville.

The mission was to distribute the donations to area children during the holiday, according to club officials.

The next meeting of the club will be held on May 5.

Members will meet again at noon for a luncheon at Scaffidi’s.

The afternoon’s program will follow lunch.

In observance of National Teacher Appreciation Week, retired teacher Michelle Fabbro will address those in attendance for the afternoon program.

The meeting will include an appearance from those high school students who are this year’s recipients of the club’s scholarships.

Those serving on the board of directors will meet prior to lunch at 11 a.m.