As with all non-profits, the pandemic has played havoc with fundraising for the Kindness Kottage in Mineola.

So much so that director B.J. Gold had to keep a precious giveaway item in her home, waiting for things to improve.

The autographed and hand-painted Fender guitar from local country star Kacey Musgraves was finally awarded to a lucky winner last week, and the winner couldn’t have been more pleased to offer his winnings to his daughter.

Darrell Vann bought the winning ticket, and with his daughter Abby a guitar player, he was more than happy to hand it to her.

The guitar, was painted by Kacey’s mother, Karen.

She adorned it with roses, and Abby’s middle name is also Rose.

Gold said the drawing for the guitar raised $5,000 for the Kindness Kottage food pantry.

The Kottage also operates a second-hand store in downtown Mineola.

Kacey’s grandparents, Darrell and Barbara Musgraves, were on hand for the presentation and thrilled with the results.

Barbara said she will pack up Kacey’s cut out and take it back home where it will await the next opportunity.

Abby’s prize included an authentication letter as well as a stand and case.

Kindness Kottage has been helping residents living in the area of the Mineola school district since 1983.

In addition to the food pantry it also offers other financial assistance to those in need of a hand, such as with utilities or prescriptions.

The Kottage accepts a variety of donations, including good quality usable furniture, house wares, clothing, shoes, most working items, food and monetary donations.

It has been in its location at 316 E. Broad St. for four years, and the guitar giveaway was planned as a celebration of the non-profit’s expanded work since moving to that location.