Where Will A Need For Furniture Lead?
Tamara called our Connection Center, looking for help with furniture.
As I talked with her more, I could tell she was a gentle soul with a creative spirit that needed more than a couch or a chair. Tamara was looking to connect to a faith-based community with a welcoming atmosphere to help encourage her as she faced health challenges while living in a quieter, rural area.
We connected her to local agencies for resources to support her, like a local senior center and public transportation options. Then, I shared information about our Fresh Start Program, along with the blessings that could come from participating in it, like earning vouchers to purchase items in our thrift stores or Gap Ministries available through our church partners. Tamara chose to participate, and by attending the free classes, she has built relationships with our staff, other community members, and volunteers.
Then Tamara faced another challenge: her vehicle needed repair.
She wasn’t sure where to go or how she would be able to afford the repairs. So once again, Tamara reached out to us, and we were there for her. She asked us if we could help with this need. We said yes and helped connect her to the car repair Gap Ministry through St. Maximilian Kolbe, one of our church partners. We walked alongside her, the church, and the car repair shop throughout the process. Tamara was able to save up funds to pay for her half of the repairs. Being involved in our community allowed us to support and love her best through this challenge.
So, what about the furniture?
Since attending the Fresh Start Program, Tamara saved up her furniture vouchers. She was looking for something to put her feet up on. Something to sit and snuggle with her grandchildren, watch TV, or read a book on. One day, a family graciously donated a sectional couch to our thrift store in Howard Lake. Tamara knew it was what she was looking for and purchased it. It has been an incredible blessing to her family and has been a gift that keeps on giving.
As we have walked with Tamara through the years, she has made new relationships, has become active at a local senior center, and, through a referral from us, has found employment. She even has dedicated time at to give back to the community that she has been helped by.
We will continue to encourage Tamara as she travels down the road that God is leading her towards.
Where will God lead you today? Will he lead you to donate items to our thrift stores? Will he lead you to give back by volunteering with your time? Will he call you to help support those in your community with a financial gift? We pray that Tamara’s Love Story inspires you to take that next step in your life’s journey and be open to God leading you to love others In the Name of Christ.