“Poly Dolly” helps raise funds for the Polyclinic

On Tuesday afternoon, December 4th a group of lovely ladies, decked in holiday attire and eager to dine and socialize met for a “Ladies Holiday Charity Luncheon.” Hosted by Casa Picasso, the luncheon was organized by Ti Southwell, Amy Knox, Tina Hayden and Tammy Peterson. The get-together was not only an opportunity to visit with friends, enjoy fine food and wine while bringing in the holiday season, but an occasion to help raise money for the community.
While the guests enjoyed a delicious lunch and cocktails, a raffle was held where a variety of gifts were presented to the lucky ticket holders. Generously donated by local business, the prizes ranged from sunset cruises and gift certificates to baskets of chocolate. There was also an ornament exchange which was enjoyed by all who brought one to the luncheon.
While there were plenty of local San Pedro “socialites” in attendance, the true guest of honor was Poly Dolly. Multi-colored and multi-ethnic, the colorful handcrafted fabric Poly Dolly dolls, fashioned by three Sagebrush Community Church members were created to raise funds for the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II. Each unique doll, stuffed with bean bellies and rice legs, donned a Poly Dolly tag with a name and interest penned on it, such as “Hi! My name is Emma and I like to go on adventures!” Of course the sophisticated ladies were immediately reduced to young girls, enamored with the darling dolls as they admired each and every one. With a total of 80 to choose from, soon the number dwindled as gifts for granddaughters, nieces and neighborhood cuties were rapidly purchased. For only $25, many bought two or more, thrilled to find a unique gift while helping the Polyclinic. With 100% of the proceeds going to the clinic, the guests enthusiastically purchased the dolls.
Ti Southwell, who spearheaded the Poly Dolly project, told The San Pedro Sun that she, along with Amy Oldham and Cara Tucker spent the last three months sewing the dolls, “We are thrilled that everyone loves the dolls!” she exclaimed. The proceeds will go to purchasing much needed supplies for the clinic. With a Polyclinic wish-list of several items needed, ranging from medical digital thermometers to spine boards, eye pads, urinals, diapers, tape and more, the items will be purchased with the proceeds and donated to the clinic.
At the end of the luncheon, Southwell thanked the group for attending the luncheon and reported that with the sales from the Poly Dolly’s, a portion of the lunch proceeds and a donation of $200 from Casa Picasso, the day had totaled $2,000. She then went on to announce that two anonymous individuals had offered to match whatever amount had been raised that day. With the matches now growing the total amount to $6,000, the guests applauded wildly. San Pedro Lion member, Jan Brown then took the opportunity to thank the group for supporting the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, which was envisioned by the San Pedro Lions Club International.
The Poly Dolly’s will be available for sale at the Glow Belize table at Central Park on the night of the Lighted Boat Parade on December 8th. For more information please contact Ti Southwell at [email protected].