A Gift of Hope and Healing Through the Guardian Angel Fund

In the heart of Shelburne Falls, a fund carries the memory of a beautiful soul, Anna Marie Townsend. The Guardian Angel Fund, established in her remembrance and now facilitated through the Mary Lyon Foundation, has become a lifeline for local families facing unimaginable hardships. What began as a community’s effort to honor the life of a young girl who was taken too soon has evolved into an enduring symbol of love and resilience.

Though Anna Marie’s life was tragically cut short in the mid-1960s, her legacy lives on through the love of her family and community. Her younger brother, just four years old at the time of her death, thought of her as his guardian angel, a belief that inspired the creation of the Guardian Angel Fund. This heartfelt tribute transformed a family’s grief into something that continues to provide hope and assistance to families facing their own struggles.

The Guardian Angel Fund has become a critical resource for Shelburne Falls families facing unexpected crises. Whether it’s the loss of a job, a serious illness, or the death of a loved one, many families in the community find themselves struggling to provide for their children’s education. This fund steps in to ease these burdens, ensuring children don’t miss out on the opportunities they deserve.

Carl Nelke and Janet Gerry, who have championed the fund since its inception, have always believed in the importance of education and the power of community support. They know firsthand how transformative education can be. “We’ve been fortunate to have opportunities, and we want every child to have the same chance, no matter what challenges they face,” the couple shared.

The Mary Lyon Foundation is essential in managing the Guardian Angel Fund, ensuring that resources are directed to families facing the greatest need and keeping the community’s well-being at the forefront. In addition to overseeing the fund’s distribution, the Foundation works closely with other local resources to guarantee that families receive the relief they need in all aspects of their lives. Through its thoughtful approach, the Mary Lyon Foundation ensures that the Guardian Angel Fund continues to have a lasting, positive impact on families in our region.

The Guardian Angel Fund beautifully reflects the spirit of Shelburne Falls—a community that takes heartache and turns it into something powerful. The Mary Lyon Foundation is dedicated to nurturing the fund’s future, providing a steady source of aid for years to come. With care and thoughtfulness, the Foundation not only manages the fund’s resources but also works to simplify access for families, allowing those who need assistance to receive the support they require easily. By doing so, the Foundation helps the Guardian Angel Fund continue to grow, offering hope and comfort to West County families for generations to come.

As we reflect on Anna Marie’s life and the enduring contributions of the Guardian Angel Fund, we invite you to join us in sustaining this vital resource. Your donation allows children facing challenges to continue pursuing their dreams and opportunities. Though Anna Marie’s time with us was brief, her influence continues to touch the lives of those in Shelburne Falls and beyond.

By contributing to the Guardian Angel Fund, you’re doing more than honoring Anna Marie’s memory—you’re lending a hand to families living through difficult moments, offering them a lifeline when they need it most. Your donation ensures that her kindness and spirit continue to uplift children and families for generations to come. In a community known for its deep connections and support, Anna Marie’s legacy reminds us that together, we can help each other through even the toughest times.