ST. LOUIS — In the heart of the Baden neighborhood, a small house is all a 62-year-old nurse with 25 years of experience in home health care needed to create her nonprofit.
A Baden native Rosemary Ray, known in the neighborhood as Momma Ray, returned to her roots and noticed a serious need.
"There was a lot of gun violence and a lot of other violence," Ray said.
Her solution to this problem was the Buchanan Foundation, born in 2018.
"Wherever the need is, we try to lend that helping hand," Ray said. " It's what we do."
She believes now the neighborhood is getting better.
"Some basic humanitarian needs had to be met in the Baden area," she said.
Ray's focus extends beyond traditional charity work. James Flemings, one of the beneficiaries, recalled how she has helped him: "Hats, coats, gloves, food in the mornings when I'm hungry."
Ray's commitment goes beyond providing aid; it's about nurturing a sense of community for those facing obstacles.
" I love these people," Ray said.
One of the struggles in this community is drug-related, specifically Fentanyl, Ray said.
"This is really a hard substance to deal with. You just try to show them that you love them and they try to give you love back but it's a horrible drug," Ray said as her eyes began to fill with tears.
Ray has assisted those battling addiction who want to enter a rehabilitation center. She even drops them off and calls to ensure a spot for them beforehand.
"She loves us unconditionally," Raquea Harris, another beneficiary, said." Since I have been on the streets she has been there and you do not have to ask. She is not judgmental and she helps everyone."
The nonprofit is sustained with the help of a few small grants, sponsors, and a lot of hope.
"We manage because I am going to get up and make sure we have the food we need to feed the people," Ray said.
Ray is currently awaiting good news on another grant application.
"Grants are what we need to survive, she said.
Ray kindles a flame of compassion that radiates through the community, earning her the title of a "beacon of light" from supporter Brittany Sullivan.
Recently the story took a heartwarming turn when Brittany Sullivan, a mother of two living just 20 minutes away, discovered Rosemary's Toy Drive on KSDK.com. Sullivan was moved by the thought of children missing out on the magic of the season, becoming an extraordinary force for good.
"I felt it deep in my soul and I wanted to help," said Sullivan. Her call for assistance on social media leads to an overwhelming response, raising close to $20,000 in cash and brand-new toys. A truckload of donations arrived at Ray's door, marking the beginning of a powerful partnership.
Sullivan's involvement isn't a one-time gesture; she transforms into a steadfast partner in Ray's ongoing journey.
"When you see someone who pours their heart out... it makes you want to do everything in your power to lift that person," Sullivan said. "She sees her community as her children whether they are little, expecting mothers, single mothers, or adults who have issues. It doesn't matter, Rose takes them and puts them under her wing."
Flemings reflected what Ray has done for him, "I mean, probably without her really helping me, ain't no telling where I'd be right now today, you know."
In a world where compassion becomes a way of life, the Buchanan Foundation stands as a testament to the extraordinary impact that genuine support can have on a community.
If you’d like to help, the foundation is looking for new and gently used winter coats, hats, and gloves. For more information click here.
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