Rapid City, S.D. – Local florist Victoria’s Garden is turning a simple gesture of love into a lifeline for families in crisis. From November 9 through November 14, the shop will give a dozen wrapped roses to anyone who brings in two cans of food and a $10 donation.
How the program works
Customers who participate receive a fresh bouquet of roses, a symbol of hope and appreciation, while the canned goods are collected for the WAVI shelter’s holiday pantry. The shelter provides emergency assistance to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, offering a safe place, counseling, and essential supplies.
Why the florist is involved
Owner Vicki Bierman says the partnership with WAVI is deeply personal. “They have a special place in our hearts, and they actually helped me out many, many years ago,” Bierman explained. “When we reached out to them a few years ago, the community just wants to support WAVI; it’s an outpouring of love, and it’s made this our favorite week of the year.”
Community impact
The initiative gives residents an easy way to contribute to a vital cause while receiving a token of gratitude. By combining a charitable food drive with a small floral gift, the event encourages more people to donate, strengthening the safety net for vulnerable families during the holiday season.
Organizers emphasized that the goal is to ensure families in crisis have the basics they need for the holidays. “We wanted to give people a way to give flowers while helping make sure families in crisis have what they need this season,” a spokesperson for the event said.
How to participate
Donors can drop off their canned goods and cash donation at Victoria’s Garden during regular business hours. The shop will wrap the roses on site and hand them to contributors. The collected food will be delivered to WAVI’s pantry in time for the holiday celebrations.
Residents are encouraged to spread the word, invite friends, and make the most of Caring Rose Week. With each rose given, another family receives a step toward safety and stability.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.