There but for Fortune: The Community Cares Raffle
Larry & Mojo
By Claire Levine
In 1963, Phil Ochs wrote the poignantly beautiful song, “There but for Fortune.” He reminded us then, as now, that we are all one accident, one illness, or one bad stroke of luck away from needing compassion, friends – and help.
Reading about those who benefit from The JWF’s Musicians Health & Services Program and from Meals on Wheels People, we are reminded of how, but for fortune, we and those we love may find ourselves in similar circumstances – and how we can celebrate our good fortune by helping others.
The JWF and Meals on Wheels People are coming to you during the longest, sunniest days of the year to remind you that many here in our community are struggling with the darkness of misfortune – illness, hunger, isolation,
And that’s why you are encouraged to buy raffle tickets to the Community Cares Raffle. For only $10, you can help someone in your community – and win the chance for a terrific package of food and experiences.
Meet some of the people who will be helped by your generous ticket purchases and contributions:
Larry. We’ve all heard the stories about hard choices: people who have just enough money to buy food, cover their medications or pay the utility bills. All these choices can cause tragic outcomes. Larry had to choose between eating and another essential need: the health of his service dog.
With the help of Meals on Wheels People, Larry no longer has to make that hard choice.
Larry, a disabled veteran, relies on his dog Mojo for emotional and physical support, as well as the companionship so important to many who live alone. But Larry had to choose between his old pal’s veterinary bills and buying food for himself. Larry eventually ended up in the hospital with malnutrition.
Meals on Wheels People stepped in – not only with nutritious meals, but with friendly faces and its Pet Program. Through a network of veterinarians and other providers, Larry and others like him can receive free or discounted vet care, plus free pet food, grooming and other essentials.
Larry said, “My overall health has gotten a lot better. I was having problems staying conscious because of malnutrition. That’s scary. But now I know tomorrow I’m going to be in my own home. And I get to keep my dog.”
Meet Larry and Mojo at the Meals on Wheels People page here.
MONICA NELSON & THE JACK LONDON TRIO - Al Maly: guitar, Ivan French: bass, Doug Naish: drums, Monica Nelson: vocals, Chester C. Stallings: guitar. Photo by Todd Luff 2023
Monica Nelson has been a Northwest music icon since the heyday of punk, when she influenced countless female singers as a member of The Obituaries. Her voice, her style and her songwriting have strengthened her following over the decades as she continued performing with notable Portland ensembles.
Until her career literally came crashing down. A bad fall in August last year left her with a broken neck and spinal cord damage. Nearly a year later, Monica works hard on her recovery while she receives help from The JWF’s Musicians Health & Services Program.
Last year, The JWF stepped up quickly with grants to help with basic expenses, particularly rent assistance. And realizing the long-term nature of Monica’s recovery, the foundation created an artist relief campaign to raise additional funds.
As always, JWF support goes well beyond money. The JWF’s Lead Navigator helped Monica apply for Social Security Disability and long-term rental assistance.
Close friend Brandon Lieberman has said, “Having a positive attitude is so important,” on behalf of healing. And Brandon said that relieving anxiety over bills and access to additional support helps Monica sustain that positive attitude tremendously.
The Raffle: For the sixth straight year, the popular Waterfront Blues Festival has chosen The JWF and Meals on Wheels People to be its community partners. The festival is an opportunity to introduce more people to the importance of these two organizations.
Meals On Wheels People’s development coordinator Anna Puscak having fun selling Community Cares Raffle tickets at last years Waterfront Blues Festival.
And it’s also a chance to win one of two fabulous packages showcasing the gorgeous Pacific Northwest that nurtures us all. A $10 ticket puts you in a drawing for the Escape the City Package, valued at $2,215, and the Enjoy The City Package worth $2,106. Of course, the more tickets you buy, the greater your chances! And the more you will be helping these two organizations and those they help. The drawing will be held at the Waterfront Blues Festival at 7 p.m. July 4. You need not be present to win.
In the spirit of Phil Ochs. And when you have read the stories and bought your raffle tickets, you can seal the emotional deal by listening here, as our Lady of Compassion reminds us that there but for fortune go we all. And there’s no better way to celebrate our own health, well-being and good fortune than to spread the help throughout our wonderful community.
