Straight from the Heart
I am often asked this question in public spaces by friends and acquaintances: “Are you full?” There are big Homeless organizations that feed that type of thinking. When you read materials from their organizations, they are reporting statistics constantly about Hots and Cots. These are the number of hot meals we served, and here are the number of people we provided a bed to for an overnight stay.
One huge Homeless facility in St. Louis used to house 100 poor families on the floor in one room in their facility. They were on mats, family by family, right next to each other. They brought in their camera crews, interviewed the needy families, and appealed for funds. That is an extreme example of the philosophy I described in the previous paragraph. I can assure you that we will not go in that direction as an organization.
We want to deal with Homeless Men, Women, and Families on an individual and personal basis. We want to know their names and bring Hope to them, one person at a time whether they stay with us for three days or three months. We appreciate your regular support and we are engaged in that endeavor every day.
It’s still fine for you to ask, “Are you full?” because, in fact, you care.
We Love You, Brian Bisbee
A Middle School Student and a Bethel College Student—What do they have in common?
The Santa Fe Middle School student gathered food for our Food Pantry and our lunches, paper goods, and personal care items. She did it by herself and arranged the transportation of it through one of her parents.
The Bethel College student played a game on campus that offered cash prizes for different places. The stipulation was that the prize had to be given to a charity. He chose New Hope Shelter.
Thanks to both of these students who sacrificed their time and effort to help us.
Panhandler Alert
I have dealt with panhandlers for over 20 years. I have seen all kinds of signs. I have dealt with over one hundred and have determined based on my unscientific studies that this is the best sign for getting the most money “Homeless Veteran Will Work for Food. God Bless.” Before you think that my cynicism has taken over, know that I have offered assistance to all of the panhandlers. I have offered food, shelter, and more. Five have accepted help. The others have replied with responses like, “I’m good”, “I’ve got food”, “I have a place.” etc. Draw your own conclusions. I would advise you not to give these people money. Most are using the money you give them for purposes you would not be happy with. Feel free to pick up some of our cards and distribute them to panhandlers in the Four County area.
Our Unsung Heroes
Every night like clockwork a delicious meal appears at the New Hope Shelter. It is prepared by our Meal Team volunteers from one of our supporting churches. Volunteers come in to serve the meal and encourage our residents. We want to say a Big Thanks to you if you are involved in any way in that process. You are the best!
If you would like to be a volunteer on one of these teams, please call Marilyn at 316-283-7711.
Recently we helped an 86 year old man and his 83 year old wife. There are a whole lot of people facing a whole lot of challenges out there. Are there five of you, starting this month, who would step up to make a monthly commitment of $15 to sustain the very important work of the New Hope? Thanks for your prayerful consideration.
8 ½ x 11 Copy Paper
Sliced meat for Workers’ lunches
Toilet paper
Paper towel
Sandwich bags
Lunch bags
Napkins
Coffee
Sugar
Creamer
Floor cleaner
Laundry pods
Our mission at New Hope Shelter, Inc. is to provide a sanctuary for those experiencing homelessness in Harvey, Marion, McPherson and Butler counties by uniting the local church into a nurturing community which restores hope through a growing relationship with Christ.
It is through the love of Christ we share with those in need of hope.
Executive Director - Brian Bisbee
brian@newhope-shelter.org
316-283-7711
