Thanks to a Friendship Trays supporter, one recipient's home will be more bearable during the hot summer months. A donated air conditioner went into Mr. G's  apartment last week.

This story begins with a visit from nutritionist Kelly Vass to a recipient. A May 7 e-mail appeal to supporters told the story:

"A Friendship Trays recipient was living off Statesville Avenue. His roommate moved out, leaving him with a monthly rental fee too big to pay. So the recipient moved from an air-conditioned apartment to a non-air-conditioned duplex across town.

"From his prior landlord he acquired a bed. From Crisis Assistance Ministry he obtained a refrigerator and stove. Friendship Trays donated a spare microwave. He has two folding chairs and a table. What he needs is an air conditioner."

A donor responded. A room renovation had left her with a new window too narrow for the new air conditioner she had purchased. She met Vass in Matthews to deliver the unit. When Vass and her husband arrived at Mr. G's apartment later that Thursday, Vass wrote, "Mr. G greeted us with perspiration dripping down his forehead. He was very, very appreciative of the gift and looked forward to cooler temperatures in his unit of the duplex."

End of story? No.

Vass says she has a list of four other people willing to help when a future need arises. And with the hot months still ahead, a future need will arise.

Thanks to all who responded to the May 7 e-mail plea on behalf of Mr. G. This is what community is all about.