A Letter to Oprah

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah’s Angel Network

P.O. Box 96600

Chicago, IL 60693

Friday, March 23, 2012

Dear Ms Winfrey,

I am a freelance photographer who travels the Southern backroads, meets people, and documents poverty. I blog about some of my encounters and many of these people ask me to help them. My very small ministry is taking blankets to the less fortunate. A guy in one of my photos froze to death a few years ago, and I feel no one in America should go to bed cold.

During December last year, after doing some research, I made my destination Africa Town, Mobile, Alabama. Being an Alabama girl, I was surprised I had never heard of it. Little did I know where this adventure would lead and I found myself inside one of the oldest homes in the area with 85 year old Lottie Watts. I sat at the foot of her bed and heard her story. She had a personal birthday card from President Obama but when I asked her what I could do, she asked that I contact you to help her. Her tiny home is in deep disrepair and she loves to entertain guests from her bed. Hospitality has been her life for both homeless and needy people. I wish I had the money to help her, but at least I have a voice to make a plea for her.

Rather than ramble on further, please let me know if you would be interested in contacting her and I will give you her info. She is precious and I DO mean precious. I know this is a cry in the dark but she is waiting. 

Sincerely yours,

Vicki Wilson Hunt

www.vickihunt.com 

vickiwilsonhunt@earthlink.net

vickihunt1@earthlink.net

A Blanket for Doris's Husband

Our getaway farm is on a dirt road deep in the heart of Dixie. It's a log cabin tucked away between two bamboo forests. Its comforts are endless....a front porch with 2 swings, starry nights, a 3 acre front yard paradise for wildflowers (and weeds), a birdhouse where a hawk perches in hopes of prey, dogs romping and chasing rabbits and squirrels, peace and calm. It sounds great, but to get to it one must go through poverty stricken areas, and just around the corner people have great needs.

I save clothes from our own closets as well as take good used clothing from other sources to give to one of my favorite black families in our area. On one occasion all 5 of us ladies were up on their front porch as I gave clothes right out of my trunk and each lady claimed her "pile". I visited last week with some gentlemen's suits since I know how their community dresses 'up' for church. These items were especially for her husband. As they all came out to greet me, their faces were grief stricken since they had just learned their husband/father had lung cancer...No chemo was offered. It was an awkward moment. I did not linger but let them have their special time with him.

It's spring weather in Dixie, with not many needs for blankets right now, but I gave one anyway that day. Nights are still cool and a new fresh navy blue blanket seemed to be my best gift to the husband.  Thank you again to my girlfriends for providing the blankets.  

Blankets Needed

February 20, 2012

Miss ---------------

Dear Miss -------------,

Hello! Let me introduce myself as a rural South photographer, who travels the backroads, meeting people in the deep South. I am often faced with sorrow as I talk to people in poverty whose needs are so vast it is overwhelming. Several years ago I decide to help where I could and after one of the guys in a photo I took died from freezing to death, I decided to have a blankets ministry. For 2 years I have distributed a minimal number of blankets given to me by the First Lady Patsy Riley of Alabama, and last year given by several girlfriends whose hearts were stirred as they saw some of my photos. You might want to check out my Southern Journal/Encounters on my website, www.vickihunt.com. 

Last year in some of my travels, I stayed at ----------- Hotels and began to wonder what happens to the used up bedding when -------- decides to refurbish rooms. It’s just an idea, but would you consider making a plea to anyone in corporate  to contribute discarded blankets for my cause.

Sincerely yours,

Vicki Wilson Hunt

www.vickihunt.com

Africa Town

Africa Town is worthy of googling and finding out more about this history rich area of Dixie. I am privileged to have had an encounter with the lady who owns the oldest house in the area. Her warm personality and hospitality confirmed my curious pursuit of making this my destination over the Christmas season. I found myself at the foot of her bed, (she is 85) absorbing her story, photographing her and taking with me a taped version of her life and personal needs. I also took with me some of her simple requests for improved living in this area.  Although I love traveling the Black Belt region, there is so much to be learned about my entire state, and so many people to "get to know".

The Lonely Traveler

 As I traveled the highway, I noticed a lonely figure walking eastward along the side of the road. The older man had a significant bend in his back across his shoulders. I had 2 beautiful blankets in my trunk and knew that offering one to him was a must.
 After turning my car around, I parked in a lot next to a restaurant and waited for him to catch up. His face was lined and his manner was gentle. I asked my typical questions: "Are you homeless?" He was. "Do you need a blanket?" "No ma'am, I am fine." he replied. "Are you hungry?" "No ma'am, I am fine, really. I have a little money and plan to stay at that hotel up ahead. Do you know anything about it?" I did not know.
 His load was light.  A bottle of water was attached to his bedroll. He carried a small bag of necessities in his right hand and a small pack across the hunched back.
 I felt helpless. He was proud. My emotions were rampant, and knowing that I would never see him again left me with one responsibility; to pray for his safety, warmth and welfare.
 My heart overflows with concern over our country's homeless. I can only hope that out of our own abundance we can individually reach out to those who are desperate.

Syrup Soppin'

I am heading out to the Syrup Soppin' Festival in Loachapoka, Alabama. This will be my first time to go, and I know it will be a "taste" of the south! Photos to follow, but check out Fred Lord's banjo in my photo. I met him a few weeks ago as I traveled South.  He was on his Loachapoka storefront porch with a student and took time to show me his collection of musical instruments.

 Hopefully I will meet the Loachapoka locals early in the morning at the biscuit/syrup breakfast! (I'll have blankets in my trunk in case I hear of someone who might need one!) Ya'll come on down if you can!

The festival was fun and countless people were there, parking on the side of the road for miles. Vendors sold their goods, and watching the syrup being made was certainly a sight to behold. The fire was stoked, syrup measured and a team of men gathered the sugar cane that was used. Steam filled the air as the liquid boiled and the delicious syrup was sold out this year.  The day was so educational and I will be having syrup on my toast in the morning! I connected with a great man, Nathaniel, who was a local, dressed in Liberty overalls. I did a mini photo shoot with him and I promised to come back to see him as well as mail his photo to him. I'll take a blanket when I go.

Cotton

Living part time on the edge of the Black Belt region of Alabama provides so many opportunities for me, such as picking cotton. I had never seen cotton growing in stages, from the exquisite flower which closes and later pops wide open to display what we know as simple soft white fibers. The harvest for cotton is now and the time to take blankets is now since the cool nights have taken the place of the sweltering heat of the summer. The back seat of my car is filled with wonderful cotton blend blankets to take to those who need them. Thanks to my friend Marjean, who found a way for 9 of our girlfriends to provide the blankets to give this winter to take on my back road adventures. Before I got back to the urban congestion of Atlanta, I had already given 2 away: one went to a guy who heats with kerosene and lives in the oldest house (passed down to him from family sharecroppers) in his county. The 2nd blanket was given to a family of 4 (whose property was passed down from generations of cotton farm hands), who took time to roam the cotton fields with me, educate me on cotton's growth and harvest, and send me home with my own plant.  As I give these blankets to those who will be cold this winter, I am so excited that I know just a bit about where each blanket started. Thank you, Girlfriends, for providing warmth for many you will never meet, but whose story will be part of my journal.  Each lady will have an account of the recipient of her blanket.

Hope

How many times we have heard the word hope in the past few years! Although I am using a photo from a different state than Alabama, this image speaks volumes about present life conditions across our country. Having photographed this porch on three occasions, I have seen significant changes in the scene, but no change in its condition. It is all about home, homeless, and minimal living. The beautiful haunting sketch on the wall cries to be heard, while the red blanket of the homeless resident whispers that he is at least warm at night. Please consider donating a blanket this winter to a shelter or individual who sleeps under the stars.

Dirt Poor

Research on Poverty/Smoking

Mrs. McCoy

I watched her cross the street, wondering when she had last seen the beautiful sky. She was hunchbacked and riddled with arthritis. She rummaged through the garbage can, taking any treasure she could find to add to her grocery cart. I made my approach, introduced myself, as once again my heart broke, especially for this older woman who lived on the street most of the time. "What could I bring you next time I am in town?" I asked. "Socks, please, and maybe a few new long skirts (size 14) with pretty flowers on them." she replied. But don't let the flowers be too big or too small was her request. So, socks will be added to my list along with blankets and books.  I'll also be looking for that perfect skirt for Ms. McCoy. This encounter made me so grateful for the small things I often take for granted.  I did not take her picture that day. I was content with just the pleasure of the divine appointment.

Memorial Day Alabama

Thank you, Sgt  Grover S. Hunt, Died in 1945 (Flag held by his brother, Ansley E. Hunt)

Tornado Woe

Close to the edge of the Black Belt Region, an area from Eclectic to Santuck was hit by the recent tornadoes. It broke my heart to see this sign "Woe is Me". At least 6 people died in this small area. Susan lost her entire home, which included her daughter's (bride-to-be) wedding dress. Even though there is a wonderful distribution center in Eclectic for essential items, many people will also need furniture as they rebuild their lives. 

The Rattlesnake Rodeo

Okay! Okay! I know! Pretty scary, but oh, so much fun! This will be my 4th trip to the rodeo. This year I will take in the bands and enjoy a Southern night listening to Southern music. My first trip was in the 1970's. I actually spent one of my honeymoon nights in this tiny, once thriving city of Opp, Alabama, home of my Mother-in-law whose family worked in the cotton mill. (I heard the snakes used to race in the streets and it was the only time my husband's Grandmother locked her doors) It's also where I met the lovely Mrs. Queen Esther Ellison, who was walking home one afternoon and took time out for me to take her picture. I hope to re-connect with her on this visit and talk to her about who might need blankets next winter. (I did visit with her in her living room and we discussed writing her life story. She will be 94 in Sept. and is the only sibling left out of 18.)

Just outside the Black Belt region of Alabama, this little town of Opp hosts the famous Rodeo, where rattlesnakes race each other from a circle on concrete to the outskirts, and the first one to cross is declared winner. One can visit the food vendors and eat fried rattlesnake (delicious) or buy snake tails or various goods made of the skins...head bands, wallets etc. There's electric bull riding, bungee jumping, games, and let's not forget the Rattlesnake Rodeo Queens! Two of the most interesting things are the pole climbing and dance competitions. The fans come out in droves and it truly is a day of family fun. About the rattlesnake meat...my brother-in-law says, "If it taste like fried chicken and looks like fried chicken, just give me fried chicken!"

The 2011 Friday night event was great!  Chris and his family wanted a photo, so here it is. Chris's snakeskin boots were amazing! The fans were fixated on the snake race and music and I look forward to the 2012 event. Ya'll come!

William Bray Memorial Checkers and Dominoes Tournament

It happens on Memorial Day! These guys go into "checkers" combat and battle to the end when trophies are given out. They play on the old boards, and fans gather around to cheer them on. William Bray, Jr. who helped me give out a few blankets this past winter continues this tradition in memory of his Father.

My Visit with Mrs. Rice

In February, I visited Mrs. Rice and shared with her my desire to take blankets/books/etc. to the Black Belt Region of Alabama.  She allowed me to come inside and photograph her reading her Bible in her den chair. Her walls were filled with photos of her family, special crosses and plaques with Biblical quotations. Her husband was W.C.Rice who had the most amazing passion for the love of Jesus, the "Book of Life" and bearing the cross. Mrs. Rice and I moved out to the front porch where I did a little more photography. Selling photos like this makes money to take to families who are in need. Thank you, Mrs. Rice!

Cigar Boxes

After searching the city high and low to find pencil boxes for the children of the Black Belt Region of Alabama (specifically for the 6 children posing in the photo "School's Out" and 2 more kids inside the house), I decided to pop into a well known cigar shop in the area. After being pointed in the direction of the 3 stacks of amazing handmade boxes that once held cigars, I sat on the floor for an indefinite time pondering my choices. I could only choose 10. One could never imagine my dilemma. I wanted them all and could envision the items that would go neatly into each one: scissors, pencils, a box of markers or crayons, a small notepad. I made the final decision and reluctantly put the ones back I could not buy at the time. A man we will call Rob, came over and said, "Of all the ones you put back, which would you choose again?" One by one as I held the boxes up that I could not get, he asked for them. I was hopeful he was an owner of the cigar shop and would put them away for me until March. He walked over to the counter and paid for most of the boxes, leaving me with a mere $8 balance.  I really do not think Rob realizes what blessings are in store for these children as I load these boxes with things that most of us take for granted. He will be a part of the gift that delights children as I travel the back roads and meet people who treasure gifts like this. I even know a lady who asked me to bring her a gift, and now I have a precious box that I can fill with  some of my note cards, stamps, and a pen. Thank you Rob, for blessing me today with your generosity and I hope we meet again at the cigar shop when I come back for more "pencil boxes".

I might add here that some of these boxes will be used for my cards to give as gifts. You could never imagine how unique they are. I would love to keep every one of them!

Worldly Goods

Sometimes this is all a homeless person owns. His load is light. Notice the 2nd hat. 

The Homeless Man

I did not get his name. He wandered onto the train, begging for money. He was a homeless Vietnam Vet. I was skeptical of his story until he pulled his knitted toboggan off and you could see where half his forehead was gone from a shatter blast. His wife had died of cancer years ago, and he had slowly sunk into despair, depression and loss of all his worldly goods over the years. He had become a beggar with no home or family.

Now, what I found to be curious was that he was a white man, but every person who gave him money that day (at least 7 individuals) was black. I have often seen the white man give to the black beggar, but this truly warmed my heart, especially to see the black folks' generosity to one in need in spite of his color. I once was told that "God does not see the  color of your skin" and that day, I clearly saw evidence that mercy and charity work both ways.

It was winter and extremely cold outside and I asked, "Where is your coat?"  He told me it was stolen when he was trying to check into one of the local shelters. All I had was a pair of stretch black woolen gloves and I gladly gave him those. The question is, had I been a man, would I have given him my good coat? He loudly recited this verse in its entirety from the Bible.  (Matthew 25:35-40).

³⁵ For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, ³⁶ I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
   ³⁷ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? ³⁸ When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? ³⁹ When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
   ⁴⁰ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

He was pulled from the train after the next stop by a police officer who happened to be on board. I will never see this man again but he and the other "givers" taught me the greatest story of love that day.

Bless You, First Lady of Alabama, Patsy Riley

First Lady Patsy Riley has a ministry called Blankets with a Blessing. I was blessed myself in being allowed to go to the Governor's Mansion, thanks to my talented and beautiful friend, Dorothy Ziegler,  to get a bundle of blankets to give out on one of my back roads trips to those who would need them in this brutal ~~so far~~ Southern winter. My wonderful Tuskeegee friend, William Bray, knows his community well and promised to give a few to those in his area.  My next stop was to a gentleman who is shut in and lives alone. Another blanket was given to a terminally ill man in Montgomery, who just wanted something warm for his bed.

The blankets have a simple prayer by St. Francis and the Bible verse John 16:33 attached. The message simply ends with

"This blanket comes to you with blessings from the First Lady of Alabama, Patsy Riley, and the citizens of Alabama."

So, thank you, Mrs. Riley, for this great ministry you started and your generous heart to reach out to those in need. Thank you also to the people of Alabama who donate these warm, fleecy blankets and to Leah and Emily, assistants to the First Lady. I wish you could meet each person you bless with your generosity!

Heavy Hearts

I had never been this close to poverty before. At least four boys played ball in the street. The ladies and small children were inside. I was invited in. The room was bare and could not have been more than 12x12'. Two closed doors led to other small rooms. There were nine of us and it was warm inside even though it was 37 outside. They had one piece of furniture, a sofa, and all the ladies sat on it while I sat with the children on the floor. My husband and I had taken a few toys and a few jackets to the kids, thanks to a generous donation from a family I met. My nervous husband sat in the car waiting. He was not happy about being in this place. As I approached the car after my visit, a lady in a wheelchair rolled down the street and asked if I had a gift for her. I promised to return with one. My heart was overwhelmed with thoughts of this moment as we witnessed the many needs of this entire street of families. We traveled back to the comforts of our home with a heaviness in our hearts over the poverty in our great state of Alabama.