A few weeks ago, I stopped at a local grocery store and struck up a conversation with the cashier while checking out.
She asked, “What are you doing today?” I replied, “We have a furniture and appliance drive!” She then proceeded to briefly tell me her story.
Her husband and children recently moved here from a state in the western part of the United States because of the lower cost of living. They were in desperate need of furniture but didn’t have the means to purchase what was needed.
“Is your husband working?” I inquired. I was told he is working at a local fast-food restaurant, earning a minimal wage. I asked for her contact information and said we would give her what she and her family needed. She was elated beyond description.
We ended up having a successful drive, but it will not take long before what we have collected will be used to help needy individuals and families who are living on the edge. We are constantly in need of furniture, appliances, kitchen items and literally everything that helps make a house a home.
There is man I know who is getting released from prison in a few weeks. He has lost everything, including his wife, children and job. He is literally starting from scratch. I assured him that we would help him start over by furnishing his new apartment as he starts to put his life back together.
I am reassured that his first priority is not a job, an apartment, or even the furniture, but his relationship with God. I pray that his faith will always remain number one in his life.
I like to remind our donors that many of the graduates of St. Gianna’s are also in need of furniture when they graduate.
Responding in this fashion is one of the major efforts at Catholic Social Services, as we are constantly assisting those who need help with material items. Please consider donating any material items that you are not in need of including warm winter clothing, furniture and working appliances, kitchen items, vehicles, food and literally anything you are not using or plan to use.
When someone donates something to CSS, the items are either given to someone or some family in need or sold in one of our four thrift stores and the proceeds used to directly help individuals and families with emergency services or grants for counseling for those who are un-insured or under-insured. Please be assured of our prayers for you, your family and your intentions!
