Originally I intended for this article to be a simple wish for all of you to have a blessed and joyous Christmas and I still do wish that for you. Rather than leave it at that, I thought I would share a story with you that perhaps illustrates the impact all of you have through your support of this ministry and how your actions truly impact others.
In early December a family of six came to Holy Trinity in need of assistance. They shared their story about how they had left the Midwest. Due to Covid they had lost their jobs and moved to Colorado where they had work lined up. No sooner did they start then jobs lost again due to Covid. Another move to be with family in California. After several months of seeking employment, they finally found some in Washington, only for it to disappear right after they arrived. After a few more weeks Mom was able to find a job here in the local area, which brought them to Beaverton. By now they had exhausted all of their resources and were living in their van. By the time I had talked with them, Mom had been working for almost two weeks and a paycheck would be coming in a few days, until then could we help?
Because of your incredible generosity, we were able to provide a gas card, some food, and a few nights at a local motel. Dad contacted me several times to express his gratitude The oldest son, 18, has also found employment and is helping. The younger kids are enrolled in school, taking online learning like everyone their age. Dad is looking for work that will allow him to be with the kids while mom works. Sound familiar?
With numbers so large it is easy to forget these are real people. Kids, Mom, Dad all with the same needs and desires you and I have. Working hard but struggling to keep a roof over their heads. Remind you of another family this time of year?