 On October, 2010, THE SHEPHERD' STAFF set out to help 25 individuals in the Will County area with warm clothing for the fast approaching winter months. Having become quite aware of the needs of the homeless; we were cognizant of the fact that people of all walks of life were out of work due to the recession. As we prayed for God to give us His heart, ears and eyes, we began by word of mouth to ask family and friends to gather used coats, hats, gloves and warm clothing to bless those in need.Little did we imagine that by the month of March 2011, we could say that we have assisted over 250 people. At first we couldn't keep up with the demands. The poverty level was apparent not far from our home, church and work. We looked at heartache, addictions, shame and hopelessness in people's eyes just by observing them first hand; as we would load the van with donations and head for the poorest parts of town. We have assisted men, women & children. First it was clothing and feeding the homeless. It soon became very clear that you didn't need to be homeless to be in dire need. Mother's with small children were in need of food. Unexpected pregnancy was often something that would throw people in need of assistance with clothing, nutritious food and upcoming expenses. The call to Love your neighbor as yourself was often placed before The Shepherd's Staff and so as the donations came in steadily, they also went out steadily as well. The day we received an item, it would be requested. We knew that we were following God's call on our lives. Others that have been blessed with our benefactor's generosity include those in nursing homes, disabled clients at United Cerebral Palsy Center, Lamb's Fold, Daybreak, Nicki Cruz' Victory Outreach and various churches in the area. We are trying to give the donations to individuals personally, but the abundance is so great, storage at a premium, and time of the essence, that we try to have an insider to make sure things go to the people that need them. We are in the process of taking a look at the needs of Winter 2011 and plan according. Fund raising is a priority so that we can advertise effectively and "Get the word out.", recruiting more staff members, and either securing a space in Joliet or have the funds to purchase gas to meet the needs of God's Flock. |
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