STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART
February is the month of Love. The greatest expression of Love I can think of is that which is spoken about in John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son…” That is the basis for Christian faith-based charitable organizations all around the world including New Hope Shelter. That verse is also part of the motivation for many of the people who support us with their time, treasure, and in-kind contributions.
Recently I was standing on my front porch. I heard someone calling my first name. I looked to my neighbor’s house to the West. There was no one visible. I looked across the street and there was no one there. I finally looked to my right and there was my neighbor trying to get my attention. I went over to her porch, and she handed me a market bag full of hats, scarves and items she had knit, along with some other items she wanted to donate. Within twenty-four hours those items were being worn by residents who were trying to stay warm. A lot of thought and time went into my neighbor’s gift that night. It was a direct expression of her love.
Every day we see those expressions of love. It could be something handmade like my neighbor gave or it could be something manufactured like a package of toilet paper or napkins. These gifts are not something we take for granted. They are part of the lifeblood of the New Hope Shelter. Many times I have had donors tell me, “I am sorry, this is all I could share with you.” I almost always respond by saying, “What you have brought is fine.” In God’s economy one person’s gifts/donations combined with those of others makes it so there is enough.
So, at New Hope Shelter this is the month of Love. So is every other month because we experience the Love of God through his people every month. For that I want to say “Thank you.”
We Love You,
Brian Bisbee
When you go to Wichita next time…
Don’t give money to the panhandlers at a Quik Trips. I have responded to over 150 panhandlers in various locations across the United States. Often they are holding signs making their appeal. No matter what the signs say, most of them are untrue. I have repeatedly offered help in terms of food or shelter. Of the 150 I have encountered, only five have accepted help. The other 145 asked for money, which in most cases is spent on drugs, alcohol or cigarettes. Instead, consider a contribution to the New Hope Shelter.
Let’s Talk about Work
Every month we get people back into the work force. We have people available to help you for a day or two with yard work or in cleaning out your attic. We also have a man looking for full-time work as a forklift driver. Give Brian a call at 316-283-7711. Maybe we can help.
We only need to raise $238,650 to complete our fundraising by March. That is only 4.38% of our goal. Can you help now with a check or pledge? Pledge forms are available – we will send you one. All pledges count toward the goal. Credit card contributions can be made on our website at newhope-shelter.org. Designate your contributions for the Hope Restored Campaign. Pray for us as we are involved in this process.
Here is How it Works
A nice lady picked up a ham from our freezer. She cooked it and brought it back to us for our lunches. Other ladies in recent weeks have picked up chicken, hams and turkeys to prepare for our dinner meals that their teams have served.
If you have meat to donate, we will welcome it. We will use it for our meals. If you have questions, give Brian or Shonda a call at 316-283-7711. Thanks.
You Have Helped
Every month we have residents moving out successfully with furniture and household goods which you have assisted them with. Thank you.
We have a couple of residents who need washing machines. If you have one in working condition that you would be willing to share, please bring it to our Front porch.
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
Our mailing address:
New Hope Shelter, Inc
900 W Broadway St, Bldg. 7
Newton, KS 67114-2010