They come 2 by 2. No, we are not referring to Noah’s Ark. It’s the “Linen Sisters,” affectionately know as the bed makers. This little group, of 17 strong, comes in faithfully every Tuesday morning and makes up every bed at St. Joseph’s Home with fresh, crisp sheets and fluffy pillows.
The “Linen Sisters” arrive at 9 a.m., sign in and pick up their name tags. They waste little time getting straight to their work. The fresh sheets are waiting on a linen cart in the hallway. As they enter each room, they cheerfully greet and take the time to visit for a moment or two. “No rushing! If a Resident would like to chat for a while, nothing is more important than that,” expressed the leader of the “Linen Sisters,” Jo Hollcamp. The group makes each bed with precision, yet always conscious to finish the job with that little touch of home by carefully placing their favorite pillow or throw on top. Then, with a friendly goodbye, they are off to the next room.
The spreading of sheets, fluffing of pillows and, of course, hospital corners takes this little group about an hour and a half. They are a much appreciated part of St. Joseph’s Home. Because of the “Linen Sisters” ministry, the nursing staff is able to focus on other needs of the Residents. They finish their day with a little social time, catching up, sharing their experiences of the week, ministering to each other. They are community.
Not all Homes are as blessed as St. Joseph’s in having a dedicated group of bed makers and we appreciate their commitment to the Little Sisters of the Poor and the Residents of the Home. Jo Hollcamp and the other ladies of the “Linen Sisters” have been volunteering a combined 200+ years. Many are involved in other areas of the Home as well, from the Annual Holiday Festival to the Turtle Derby.
Thank you, Ladies, for making a difference!
Thanks to our “Linen Sisters”!