In Gratitude
Most of the time we have been blessed in our lives
with family and friends, employment and fair health,
snowflakes and flowers and trees, the love of those
who have completed their journey on earth and the
ability to assist those in need who turn to us once
in a while to ask for help.
Many of you know of the great work we do of sheltering
50 women and children at a time until they are ready
to join the work force, rent an apartment, take care
of themselves and take care of their children.
Three important points come to mind at this time:
-
Recently I heard this quote -- "Our children may be a
minority of the population but they are 100% of
our future."
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The average age of a homeless person is 8.
-
Since we opened our doors at Maria's shelter in
1985 we have given shelter, food, tutoring and
day care to over 2500 children in need. We have
also given job opportunities and support to
their moms, and single, or senior women in need.
The facilities here are never considered permanent.
It is not easy for families to sleep in converted
classrooms but as they often tell us it is far better
than being out on the street. However, we are finding
that trying to make a home for the homeless is taking
more and more funding every year. The government and
corporate grants are down each year and people all
over are hurting. We know that asking you to help
us financially right now will take a real sacrifice
on your part.
We believe in you and are able to keep our doors open
because of your generosity. We therefore ask you to
place us on your Holiday Gift List this year. Your
gift will be used to help pay for utility bills and
enable us to make a home in the winter for children
and women in need. I know that it is asking a lot
to go beyond family and friends to include us as
part of your gift-giving for the Holidays and the
New Year. In return we will keep you in our loving hearts
and extend to you this Irish Blessing which I am
sure you have heard many times. May it bring laughter
and joy to you as you bring energy and strength to
others:
May there always be work for your hands to do
May your purse always hold a coin or two
May the sun always shine on your windowpane
May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain
May the hand of a friend always be near you
And May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity in this time of need.
Gratefully,
Donna Quinn
Executive Director
