Myrtle Beach Hero Organizes Volunteers, Leads Many Acts Of Kindness

Myrtle Beach, SC —When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Dawn E Bertelsen who nominated Shirley Oesterle of Myrtle Beach, SC.

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Local hero’s full name

Shirley Oesterle

Local hero’s home state

South Carolina

Local hero’s Patch

Myrtle Beach, SC

How do you know the local hero?

I found her on Facebook, volunteered and now call her a dear friend.

What does the local hero do?

Shirley had been packing Shoeboxes for Samaritan's Purse, "Operation Shoe Box" for over 25 years. On her own, spending personal funds. A couple of years ago, it got to be too much for her alone. A friend suggested that she start a group on Facebook and ask for help. "Sassy Surfside Seniors" is that Facebook group. She now has over 40 volunteers and this year we have packed at least 1,500 boxes. Each box has a $10 shipping fee. That's a lot of money for a retired woman to come up with. We are actively hoping to find help with shipping costs.

Not only does Shirley pack these boxes, in her home (it's taken over her garage and dining room), but she also heads up other kindnesses for the community:

• Cookies for those alone at Christmas. Last year, we baked and distributed over 150 boxes of cookies for those alone during the Christmas holidays.
• Personal hygiene bags for women prisoners.
• Cookies and baked goods for the area police departments in February.

Shirley is always there, willing to help and share love and smiles along the way. She truly is a gem in this community.

Why do you believe the local hero should be recognized or honored?

Shirley has been doing good works silently for over 25 years. I believe it's time she got recognition for her kind heart.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the local hero?

Shirley is committed to making our community and the world at large a better place.

Thank you for all you do, Shirley Oesterle!

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Know someone making a difference in town? Nominate them as a local hero here.