Chocolate crinkles, peanut butter, ginger, triple chocolate, and Kitchen Sink. This is just a sampling of the decadent, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that Debby bakes for the Bridging volunteers and staff members who are lucky enough to be at the Bloomington warehouse on Thursday mornings.

Debby works full-time at Boston Scientific. Her husband Tom, retired from his job, is a Thursday morning shopping volunteer at Bridging in Bloomington. While Debby does not have the capacity in her weekday schedule to volunteer, she wanted to find a special way to make a difference and support Bridging’s mission.

Contributing her baking talents is Debby’s way of sharing heaps of love with Bridging. Debby has been baking fresh homemade cookies for the Bridging team for four years. She also volunteers as a check-in volunteer at the Bedrace for Bridging and the Gala for Bridging with Tom.

Every Thursday morning, the Bloomington team excitedly awaits the dozens of Debby’s cookies that Tom transports to Bridging just before the volunteer meeting. Curiously, everyone wonders, ‘What kind of cookie did Debby bake this week?”

“We simply LOVE Debby’s cookies, there is so much to disagree on in our world, but we all agree that we love her cookies! We all look forward to Thursday mornings!” says Bloomington volunteer coordinator Erin.

Each week the team showers compliments on Debby’s cookies and requests that Tom share their gratitude with Debby for her kindness and delightful treats.

The team wanted to do more to express their appreciation to Debby.

Last week, they surprised Tom with some special gifts for his wife. Volunteers and staff collected donations and used the funds to purchase 24 pillows — a one-day supply for the individuals and families who furnish their homes at Bridging.

Recognizing the rising costs of eggs and other ingredients, the group also chipped in money to buy $150 in Cub gift cards for Debby to purchase ingredients for making cookies.

“We love and appreciate Debby’s cookies. We hope she will continue to make more!” says Thursday volunteer Joe with a smile.

Along with a thank you card, the Thursday volunteers purchased one additional gift: a Bridging apron for Debby to wear and enjoy while baking cookies for the Bridging team! Volunteer Marilyn lovingly embroidered Debby’s name on the apron too!

Debby felt touched by the team’s thoughtfulness. She expressed her gratitude and shared why she supports Bridging.

“Bridging’s mission has been near and dear to Tom and me. It gives people what they need to create a home, get back on their feet, and build their life again.

Baking is my way to support Bridging. When I bake cookies, I’m in my happy place. It’s something I’m passionate about. Eating a homemade cookie can make somebody’s day. Whatever time I’ve spent baking, it’s so worth it! I’m glad I’m helping to make someone’s day at Bridging. I was so surprised and appreciative of their gifts. I was in tears. I’m glad to do it and be part of Bridging.”

Thank you, Debby, for all you do for Bridging! We appreciate you.

Volunteer at Bridging.