MARLBOROUGH – Heather Johnston knows about the homeless.
In her capacity as co-founder of Kits for Kids, she has provided gifts, toys and clothing to families at risk of losing their homes, or living in their cars or tents.
Johnston was recently elected president of the Marlborough Rotary Club, and she is spearheading the club’s effort to raise funds for the Rotary Homestead, a women’s homeless shelter. This was first proposed by immediate past President Mark Vital.
“The city has no homeless shelter for women,” said Johnston. “We need someplace here to come and be safe.”
The city does have a shelter, Roland’s House on Mechanic Street, for men ages 18 and older.
“It’s long overdue. I applaud Heather’s initiative,” said Nick Kofos, a longtime member of the club.
He is chairman of the Rotary Club’s main fundraiser for the shelter, a golf tournament scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 20, at the Juniper Hills Golf Club in Northborough.
Kofos said they are seeking golfers and sponsors – the cost per golfer is $140, while sponsorships are $200.
There will also be a buffet dinner (for the dinner only, the cost is $35) along with prizes and raffles.
For information and to register, visit www.marlboroughrotary.org.
Installation of officers, and the coming year
In addition to Johnston, the club officers for 2023-24 include Vice President Heidi Borella, Treasurer Alan Herzog and Secretary Aaron Aykanian.
In her installation conducted by past President Sem Aykanian, Johnston outlined her agenda for the coming year; this includes Recycling Days, Turkey Shoot, holiday food basket deliveries and Italian Night.
Recycling Day is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Navin Rink. Details may be found at the club’s website or its Facebook page.
Johnston said she is excited to work with all current members, as well as with future potential members, in order to help fulfill the needs of the community. Additionally, she wishes to continue to contribute to the goals of Rotary International, as it seeks to make the world a better place in which to live.
“We’re doing a lot of projects. We’re getting things really going,” said Johnston.
