Residents of Margaret Wagner Apartments, an affordable senior housing community operated by Benjamin Rose, recently hosted an Acts of Kindness celebration to honor Emmanuel Baptist Church for years of support before, during and after the pandemic.
This event featured a presentation of goods collected by the Margaret Wagner residents
to Pastor Pope of Emmanuel Baptist Church.
What began as a simple effort to help residents connect with their community has grown into a meaningful partnership, and now, a heartfelt opportunity to give back.
The relationship between Emmanuel Baptist Church and Margaret Wagner Apartments
(MWA) began when Bonnie Paul, a social worker, sought ways to increase social engagement for residents. With help from the Cleveland Clergy Alliance, she connected with Emmanuel Baptist Church. The partnership quickly flourished.
Over the years, church members have provided transportation for residents participating
in Benjamin Rose’s COST technology training program, driven residents to special
outings such as Cavaliers games, transported individuals to grocery stores during the
pandemic and regularly shared meals with the community.
When widespread funding cuts in 2025 affected the church’s ability to continue some of
its outreach efforts, residents saw an opportunity to respond with gratitude.
MWA residents organized a food and donation drive to support the church’s ongoing
ministry, collecting canned and shelf-stable goods as well as monetary contributions.
Participants in Benjamin Rose’s Senior Companion program have also assisted in
organizing and preparing the donations.
This Acts of Kindness celebration highlights the power of community partnerships and
the importance of neighbors supporting one another, especially in challenging times.
About Benjamin Rose: Since 1908, the skilled and compassionate professionals at
Benjamin Rose have supported the aging journeys of adults and those who care for
them. For more information, visit benrose.org.
