Merrill Gardens collects for Providence Hospice

MARYSVILLE — Merrill Gardens, located at 9802 48th Dr. NE in Marysville, has become a hot spot for community activity recently.

On Nov. 5, they hosted the Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce's second Business After Hours meeting in two weeks, a historic first for the Chamber, and from Nov. 6-8, they hosted free video portraits for Marysville and Tulalip senior citizens, courtesy of White Owl Video Arts.

Merrill Gardens resident Margaret Barbey has found another way to give back to the community, by collecting coins on behalf of Providence Hospice and Home Health. She was inspired by a visit from retired ministers Ken and Olga Taylor, whose church sing-along at Merrill Gardens included the refrain, "A small gift becomes large when given from the heart." After Ken Taylor gave each of the attendees a penny for them to give away, Barbey began collecting coins, before she even knew to whom she would give them.

A root beer float fundraiser for Providence Hospice made up Barbey's mind, and she started collecting coins in earnest. As the weeks went on, she recruited fellow residents and staffers into her coin collecting drive, with a drop-off location in the lobby. At a senior information fair hosted by Merrill Gardens, Barbey was able to give nearly $200 to Providence Hospice Community Liaison Catherine Kouchakji.

"Our residents are extremely generous," Merrill Gardens General Manager Michelle Malhiot said. "I feel blessed having the privilege to know each one of them."

"We are so proud of Margaret and all of the others that have given so generously," Merrill Gardens Assisted Living Supervisor Kim Harsh said.

Merrill Gardens Community Relations Director Barbara Brotherton noted that Barbey is still collecting for Providence Hospice, and welcomed community members to swing by with donations, or send checks to Merrill Gardens at 9802 48th Dr. NE, Marysville, WA 98270.

Contact Marysville Globe Reporter Kirk Boxleitner at kboxleitner@marysvilleglobe.com or 360-659-1300 Ext. 5052.

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