Robert and Bliss Sawyer celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary not just with love, but with Hope, as they decided to dedicate this landmark year riding 4,000 miles across the United States in an initiative called Hope Across the USA.
In their journey, the couple is raising funds for Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry that is based out of Utah County, as well as Habitat for Humanity because “everyone deserves a warm bed and a full belly.”
The couple started in Bellingham, Washington, and will travel coast-to-coast, climbing more than 142,000 feet of elevation.
The Sawyers have been documenting their journey on Instagram @blisssawyer, and on YouTube @HopeAcrosstheUSA. They have raised over $4,110 as of July 1. More than raising money, however, they have found many kind people along the way who have provided them with food and shelter.
On day seven of their journey, they met a farmer in eastern Washington who asked them if they wanted cherries and then led them to a community kitchen that he ran. The man was Edward Stahl, and is the head of the Hutterite Colony, which is a 500-year-old Anabaptist Christian sect with historical roots similar to the Amish and Mennonites.
“He took us into their community kitchen/storage area,” the couple wrote in a social media update. “It was SO amazing! He kept handing us food and when we said it was enough or we didn’t have a lot of room he would reply with ‘That’s not my problem, I’m going to take care of you.’”
Stahl gave the Sawyers fresh berries, vegetables, pie, meat and some rolls.
“We ate like kings for the rest of the day,” the couple wrote. “The food was amazingly fresh and delicious!
“We would have loved to stay longer and meet more of the community, but unfortunately, we still had a long way to ride,” she added. “Later that evening, Edward called me (because) he wanted to make sure we … were doing OK. He then told me to call him when we get to the East Coast so he’ll know we made it. You better believe I’m giving him a call that day! I’m excited to have Edward celebrate that occasion with us!”
To keep friends, family and new followers engaged while following their journey, the Sawyers have a BINGO card with different things that could happen along the way. Things like, “leaving something behind,” “cheered on by someone,” “stung by a bee when riding,” and “find something cool” are on the card. Each week, the Sawyers will give away a $25 gift card to those playing along.
BINGO cards can be purchased through a donation to the couple’s fundraiser via Venmo @blisssawyer .
As of this article, the Sawyers have made it to Spokane, Washington, making it over 360 miles in nine days. Over the course of their trip, Robert and Bliss hope to raise $100,000 to help feed, clothe and house those in need.
About Tabitha’s Way
Tabitha’s Way has three local food pantries in Utah County. We provide a robust solution to individuals and families who are facing food insecurity in our community. Although for many the need for food assistance is temporary, the need for a local food pantry is ongoing because the unexpected tough times which can lead to food insecurity have no socioeconomic boundaries. Hungry people come from all walks of life; most are our hardworking neighbors. Children are among the largest populations we serve.
Our Mission is to help individuals and families through tough times by:
1. Providing temporary food assistance
2. Recommending resources for self-reliance
3. Helping neighbors help neighbors
Important Facts:
Tabitha’s Way has a 98% Charity Rating. Your donations are going directly to feeding families
75% of the families use our services for 3-4 Months
We are more than just food; we provide recommendations that help families recover from crisis and return to stability.
