SUGAR provides sweet effort for moms in Lakewood Ranch

The original plan by the Showing Unconditional Goodwill and Respect (SUGAR) nonprofit was to distribute 50 purses filled with articles such as toiletries needed by women in crisis shelters in Manatee and Sarasota counties

But on May 12, SUGAR dropped off more than 150 purses to Sarasota's Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center and the Second Chance Last Opportunity along with Hope Family Services in Bradenton.

The group, formed last October by Greenbrook's Stefanie Guido, Ali Pereira and Victoria Cobb, who all live in Greenbrook, was made its mark in a short period of time. It was formed to connect children with volunteer opportunities or create the opportunity where children can learn about volunteerism.

“We put out a call to our community and it answered in the best way,” Guido said.

The three Greenbrook women spent weeks organizing all of the donations and then children who volunteered filled the purses in assembly-line style at Lakewood Ranch Town Hall.

"Some of these purses that people are donating are brand new designer bags," Pereira said.

Guido said SUGAR thought up the idea after considering the plight of mothers who wouldn't have the ability to enjoy Mother’s Day.

“SUGAR teaches kids to give back to the community in whatever way possible,” Guido said. “Showing moms how much they mean to the community is part of that.”