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Mildred Hartnett just turned 80 but she's still running a community ministry for the Fredericksburg Seventh-day Adventist Church Date published: 5/15/2010
By CATHY DYSON Mildred Hartnett is all about helping people, as long as they're willing to help themselves. Hartnett, who turned 80 recently, volunteers at least three days a week at the Fredericksburg Seventh-day Adventist Church's community center on Caroline Street in Fredericksburg. She helped start the center in a small building on Lafayette Boulevard 20 years ago and has directed its thrift shop, food pantry and emergency fund through various relocations. Harnett, who lives in King George County, helps arrange the donated clothes and knickknacks for sale and meets with people who need financial assistance. With each application, she doles out a hug and a prayer--and scrutiny born from living through the Depression. For instance, there are not many criteria people have to meet to get the one-time assistance of $25. It doesn't matter where a person lives or how much he or she makes. Hartnett fills out a simple form that is turned in to the church treasurer, who writes the check. But there is one thing that Hartnett wants to know from those who come to her, often referred by social services agencies. Do they have cable TV? If so, she asks that they cut the service she considers a luxury--and bring her proof--before they get the cash. Applicants are sometimes offended, but Hartnett stands her ground. "Everything we do in here is done by volunteers. People sacrifice to keep this going," she said. "Why should we not ask the people we're helping to sacrifice, too?" 'SHE'S THE QUIET ONE' Recently, Hartnett was honored by the church for her work at the center. "She is an amazing woman, who shows the love of Christ to all she meets," said fellow member Tommie Melendez. "Her church family appreciates and praises her faithful service." Hartnett joked that the speakers exaggerated. Truth is, she'd rather stay in the background than be the center of attention, at home or in public. "We're a loud, boisterous family, and she's the quiet one," said Kelly Wilkinson, the youngest of her nine children. Hartnett was born in Blackstone and spent most of her life in nearby Petersburg. Her family didn't have electricity until she was 16, and they lived in tents for several years.
Date published: 5/15/2010
It is wonderful to see a positive article concerning Christians in the newspaper. I have done a lot of shopping at the Seven Day Adventist Thrift Shop over the years and Mrs. Hartnett is always a blessing to be around. She is a Light for the Lord in all that she does.
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