RUMFORD – Dot Sanchas believes Jesus’ words encourage everyone to help each other and to pray everyday.

“There are always people who can be helped. There is always someone you can give a lift to that might be a turning point in their lives,” said the woman who is sometimes referred to as the Mother Theresa of Rumford, a moniker that she said just makes her chuckle.

Sanchas, now 84, has helped thousands of people through a local food bank at St. Athanasius and St. John Catholic Church, the Free Store in Mexico and Santa’s Helpers for more than 40 years.

On Monday, the local Rotary Club honored her with a presentation as a Paul Harris Fellow.

“Dot is the most influential person in helping the community during the past 40 years,” said Dr. Jerry Cohen, who presented her with a medallion, pin and certificate after the club’s weekly luncheon meeting.

Harris, of Chicago, founded Rotary in 1905. The fellowship was established in his honor 50 years ago to be presented to local people who support the Rotary’s humanitarian and educational goals, and who help their community.

Joe Roberts, a Rotary member, said after the brief ceremony that he was pleased that the local club could bestow the honor on Sanchas. But, he said, the presentation was minor compared to all the good that she has done for decades.

Sanchas, who still works at the Free Store as often as six days a week with other volunteers, said her mother was a huge influence on her chosen path.

“My mother was always very helpful. She was shy, but she did all she could. She taught us to help,” Sanchas said.

Sanchas’ deep faith has been a strength to her for all of her life. She said she has had Parkinson’s disease for 10 years as well as arthritis.

“God is so good. God keeps me without pain so I can keep doing his work,” she said.

“There isn’t a more deserving person than you,” Tim Placey told Sanchas after the fellowship presentation.

Sanchas was critical in the organization of Santa’s Helpers, a group that provides new clothing and toys to deserving children and their parents each Christmas season. The Free Store, located in Mexico, provides used clothing, households items, and food free to anyone who needs them.