Special Thanks

We hear so much bad news that it is refreshing from time to time to hear good news. Let us share these two stories with you. You need to know the difference that you make in the lives of so many who you help through your prayers, time, talent and treasure.

On this the 10th of December 2011 one of our families that we assist and who have struggled so much but continue to fight with little outside assistance sent an e mail with the following quote. “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go”. How powerful our these words and how true and necessary for so many of our brothers and sisters who seem to have thrown in the towel. Jim and his three wonderful children still remain strong and resolute to make things work when it seems like every turn there is another road block. He lost his job, has been laid off, had no food, broke his foot , and what work there was, was very little. Jim has finally recovered from all of his physical setbacks and now as always turns his attention to his children. Recently he sent H.O.P.E. a resume and brief outline of the services he can provide. If you would be interested in receiving it please let us know and we will send you a copy. He will be very upfront with you. His family, we are glad to say have been adopted by one of our volunteer family and her work group to bring some Christmas Joy to Jim and his family.

Imagine you are to be married in a little over a month. You are rushing to prepare for this blessed commitment to one another. Often in the hustle and bustle we lose sight of what love is all about. It is sacrificing for one another, giving back blessings that you have been showered with, and a commitment to each other, God and others. There is the bridal shower, the bachelor party, the recital and practice the night before, finding the right gown, and tuxedo. Where should we hold it; whom should we invite; and so on and so on. On this the 10th of December 2011 we were once again blessed in a similar way as we were with Jim above. A wonderful young woman named Jackie and her husband to be decided to have a different type of bridal shower and bachelor party. They each selected three charities of their own and asked that in lieu of gifts, their family, friends, and loved ones donate to one of their three charities. Jackie selected H.O.P.E. as one of hers. Not only did they offer up many wonderful gifts for our Santa’s Workshop but Jackie, her bridal party and several close friends came today and participated in all the festivities. There were gifts to be wrapped, children to entertain, greeting our numerous families and children as they came for the festivities; taking pictures with Santa; sharing Christmas Joy and Hope; and helping to set up and take down. Through their efforts and our more than 25 H.O.P.E. volunteers; they made it a Christmas to remember. It was a totally unselfish act of giving and sharing with others. One parent said, “ My children have not had this much happiness in a long time and they don’t want to go home.” As she left and thanked everyone she said, “There was a whole lot of love being given by all to all in this wonderful event.” Another mother cried tears of joy because without this day her children would have no Christmas. Still another folded her hands and looking heavenward asked God’s blessings on all who made this day possible. Lastly, there was a young mother of two who recently left a shelter for women of domestic violence. Her two girls are apart from her, staying with her parents, while she puts her life back on track. She is working full time. Lives with her sister and the two of them pool their resources to begin a new life. Fortunately by the holidays she will be reunited with her two daughters and be able to share Christmas with them.

How does this relate to all of us as H.O.P.E. volunteers, supporters, prayer partners, and benefactors? The answer is that it made a difference for this one and that one, and another, and another. H.O.P.E, is His work being done through you His hands and feet. Over the twelve years that H.O.P.E. has existed, you have touched more lives than you will ever know. Someday though, I have a feeling that He will show you the difference you have made and how many you have touched. Please continue your contributions of time, talent, prayers, and treasures. His work is plenty but often times the laborers are few. There is so much need in our world bur even right here in our community. As the New Year rolls around, please consider ways to become involved and make the world a better place whether it be H.O.P.E. or another charitable group. This year alone the efforts of the H.O.P.E. Family have assisted over 200 families with furniture, household items, linens and towels. We have assisted several hundred children in our school community who are less fortunate, and we will have clothed at least 3,000 people. God bless each of you for making this happen and may He continue to stir your hearts to allow the flame to grow so that the needs of the less fortunate can be met. Just this past Friday a family donated a twin bed set to H.O.P.E. As we were talking to the dad, he informed us he had just lost his job but still considered him and his family blessed as God had given them so much over the years that this was just a little setback in the grand scheme of things.

On behalf of our Lord and Savior, all of our families who turn to us, may God bless each and every one of you this Christmas Season. As you have done for one of His little ones may He bless you and yours a hundred fold. May Jesus His Son walk with and hold you through your life’s journey; and may the power of the Holy Spirit enlighten your paths and footsteps as you make your blue print of life. May the New Year bring you countless blessings, good health, and security to you, yours, and all His people.

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR

H.O.P.E. (For All)