On The Personal Side
About 6 years ago, just before Christmas, I wanted to do something to help out single moms. Diapers is what came to mind and so off I went to purchase diapers. Now what? I needed some single moms. I found those single moms in another charity that helped pregnant single moms and gave the diapers to them. When I got back to the center the word had gotten out about the diaper help. I started receiving calls from all kinds of situations saying, "I'm not a single mom, but I need help with diapers." So, off I went to look for more diapers to now help those that were calling for help. I never anticipated that there was such a great need for diapers.
What I found out is that the need is great. I can't imagine not being able to provide for my small child that needs a diaper change. I also can't stop what I am doing. As one family after another walks in needing diapers, and I hear their stories that are so challenging, I become more and more committed to help them.
I was also a care-giver to my mom before she passed away. As she became medically challenged her need for diapers increased. Fortunately she was on Medicaid Waiver program that provided diapers to her. Right now the wait time is between 8-9 years and most seniors need them now.
My husband and I have been married for 32 years this August. We have raised our 8 children that have provided us with 11 grandchildren and 1 more on the way. In 1994, our oldest son died quite sudden from an aortic aneurysm. Although tragic, our faith in God held us together. Our other 7 grown children are doing quite well.
My husband has been a painting contractor for most of our married life. Up until recently, we have done pretty good, providing for a family of 10. From his painting business, we have paid the start up expenses and the overhead on this charity. Most of our donations come from local people dedicated to the future of this ministry.
At this point, we look to donations from individuals to help us. We are not government or state funded and look for support from local donations. This is taking awhile, and at times go through growing pains, but our vision is HUGE.
My husband is from Buffalo, NY. I am from a small town in central Il. (under 300 people). I remember when my mom fell ill to cancer. The people in the town came and did what ever it took to help our family pull through. Although my mom passed away a couple years ago, she was considered a cancer survivor. When a farmer would fall ill, the local farmers would pull together and bring in the harvest, no matter what it took.
A lot of families are falling, but if I can get the message out, I know that there are those who are willing to jump in and do whatever it takes to help. Together, we will get through this time and come out on the other side better for it all.
One of the needs that I have is to help inform our local community that our local families need diapers.
Matthew 6:19, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. NIV
