History of the Marsha Donner Mother's Day Brunch


		The Marsha Donner Annual Mother's Day Brunch is named after the woman who conceived the idea for this celebration in 1997. Marsha Donner was a mother and peace activist, who spent much of her free time inadvocacy work. She was the founder of Partners in the Promise, which worked to empower women to use their potential strength to organize peace organizations to become more unified. Marsha died of cancer in 2000 and the brunch was named to honor her memory. In its early days the event was

Don Stresser Director The Columbus Coalition for the Homeless
	small and there were some years that it did not even occur. However, by 2002, the Columbus Coalition for the Homeless determined that program was clearly valued and that it should become a permanent event.


	We feel it is important to pay special homage to those mothers who are homeless. These are women who have often fled abusive relationships, have overcome substance addictions or suffered from financial ruin because of job loss or illness. These women struggle daily to maintain their families, assure that their kids can stay in school and make efforts to establish stability in their lives. While there are organizations that offer genuine support, homeless mothers must nevertheless find new housing, employment and services to keep them out of the homeless system. These activities take hard work, persistence and a spirit of hope. For all of these reasons, the Coalition and its volunteers take pleasure in creating a special day for mothers. One day during the year where moms are given a great meal, flowers, and gifts to acknowledge that we know how hard they have labored to achieve the very best for their families.