Compassionate Ministries Stories |
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November 2008 Web Stories
Single MotherA lady who frequents our store came in the other day and stopped me to say, “Thank you.” She has a job that requires her to look professional, but doesn’t offer assistance or enough pay to support the look. She is a single mother with two children and a fairly tight budget. Through this ministry she is able to wear the professional attire that is required, and clothe her children for a fraction of the cost of department stores. She looked very nice that day and said that the outfit that she was wearing was purchased at our Thrift Store. Some things that most take for granted cannot be purchased by all people, but this ministry can open the doors for a little more in life and make it seem a little brighter through God’s compassion and love.
Referral ProgramA single mother and her daughter lost their home and everything in it to a house fire. Red Cross referred them to us and we were able to help give them a jump-start on rebuilding their life. They were able to receive clothing, food, and household items at no cost to them. Now they are taking it day by day recovering from this loss. Also, they have become regular customers because of the affordability and quality of the items they can purchase here. This kind of ministry happens because of the people donating, and the incredible volunteers that show up consistently with open hearts and minds. The referral process helps us to distinguish between those who want a hand out and those who are trying to help themselves. This has opened us up to focus on and lift up the people that truly need help.
Rose There are days when I wake up and wonder if what I am doing is truly helping people. Then there are days when I cannot question the desperate needs that are being met here. Rose walked into our doors in clothes that were three sizes to small, and she was covered in bruises. It had been two days since her last meal and much longer since she had a safe place to go. We were able to give her clean clothes and a good meal (which disappeared very quickly). I sat and spoke with her while she was here, and she told me her story. Her mother died when she was six years old, and her father is incarcerated. She has spent most of her life living in group homes. The people at her most recent living arrangement beat her. She is a mere 18 years old, but has endured much more hardship than should have to be faced by anyone. We have been partnering with other ministries and government organizations in our area to try to best help the people that come through our doors. One of these organizations, The Family Justice Center, helps women who have come from domestic abuse and this is where we sent her to get some more help. They are set up to help people in this situation and to help them get on their feet. |
