WAPELLO, Iowa — This week, people can fill their plates and shopping bags and take care of their health screening needs at the first Walk the Block event, sponsored by Just 2 Moms in downtown Wapello.

Just 2 Moms is a children’s fundraising organization started by Joni Simmon, 59, and Shelley Singleton, 65, of Wapello. The two teamed up about 2 1/2 years ago after doing fundraisers on their own.

Singleton makes and sells crafts, candles, wreaths and soaps at the Just 2 Moms store at 333 N. Second St., Wapello.

 Simmons sells second-hand items and furniture built or refurbished by her husband, Skip, at the other Just 2 Moms store a half block away at 321 N. Second St. The store locations were donated by the owners.

Both moms donate the money they make to charities such as The Heart Connection Children’s Cancer Programs and the University of Iowa Dance Marathon, which supports University of Iowa Children’s Hospital. They also give money to school events and clubs and Louisa County programs.

“Everything we do is for kids,” said Simmons whose 15-year-old daughter, Nicole, died 12 years ago of rhabdomyosarcoma, childhood cancer.

Nicole was her mother’s inspiration to do for others.

Taste of Wapello

The Louisa County Habitat for Humanity will host a Taste of Wapello food sampling from 11 a.m.-              1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 4, at the Briggs Civic Center, 317 N. Water St.

Ruth Yakle, president of Louisa County Habitat for Humanity, said she and Habitat volunteer Lois Wanfalt wanted to bring something new to the  community.

“There are more than 40 (food contributors) registered; that includes people who like to bake or cook in their home and some businesses,” Yakle said.

Food samples include salads, soup, baked goods, casseroles, flavored coffee and tea and more.

Tickets are $8 per person and $5 for children 10 and younger.

To purchase advance tickets call Yakle at 319-523-2381.

There will also be a silent auction along with the Taste of Wapello.

Women’s health fair

Free blood pressure checks and glucose screening will be available from            9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at Just 2 Moms, 321 N. Second St.

Nurses will also be available to answer questions. Louisa County Public Health, Great River Medical of Wapello and U of I Wapello Clinic are hosting the health fair.

“We want to keep spreading the message that it’s easier to stay healthy than try to get healthy. But it’s much easier to get healthy than recover from a stroke or heart attack,” said Alana Poage, Louisa County’s public health administrator.

Around the Block

On Thursday and Friday, downtown stores will be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m,. and on Saturday from      9 a.m.-1 p.m. for the event. Specials and promotions will be held at participating businesses which include JD’s Irish Ivy, Kelly Jo’s Salon, Massage by Jamie, Small Wonders, Twigs, Video Shack and the Just 2 Moms locations.

On Saturday only, Just 2 Moms, Stitches and Cream, Tastefully Simple and local baker Janet Beik will sell their items downtown.

Details

For more information about Just 2 Moms or Walk the Block call Joni Simmons at 319-523-6734 or Shelley Singleton at 319-523-2832.