Two Years and Counting

I can hardly believe that it has been two years since we first stepped into the streets with a few bags of clothing and some canned food.  Here us a link to our very first blog entry on our experience. When you stop to think about it it is absolutely amazing that our little Goleta Vineyard family has been able to sustain this effort for so long from the clothes in our closets.  I would have thought we would have run out long ago, but the clothes just keep coming!  Now we have a significant portion of our storage shed loaded with clothing (new and used) and first aid supplies.  There is also a faithful group of you committed to going out to the streets and help with the sorting, folding, purchasing, packing, and loading of all our supplies.  THANK YOU!!!!

As a direct result of our time on the streets we have seen some wonderful signs of God's grace.  Our sister Tiffany re-dedicated her life to Jesus, moved from Casa Esperanza and eventually into I.V. Church's D.P. House.  She is also enrolled in school and doing well.  Jess has also dedicated himself to Jesus and is now working on restoring and selling bicycles.  We have seen our dear brother Michael move from the Rescue Mission and into his own apartment downtown.  We have seen our brother Glenn grow deeper as the church family has come along side to encourage him and show him the love of Jesus.  We have also seen Michael and Glenn step up and become agents of change amongst their friends by inviting them to church, Cody's on Monday mornings and other special events.  None of this could have happened without you, the church family, creating a loving and embracing environment.  THANK YOU!!!!

I also wanted to say thank you to everyone who has so generously donated clothing, time, prayer and money for our giveaways.  Our last outing was a very special time with about 75 people in attendance.  We were able to provide a wonderful meal for everyone as well as our normal giveaway items, and it is only possible because of your support and donations.  I think we had around 12 volunteers helping to make it a success and be there to talk with, pray with and serve our friends on the streets.  THANK YOU!!!!

Our next outing will be January 31st and as usual you are all welcome to come and join us.  We also need more mens clothing if you have access to any.  

Right now we have at least one person who is soliciting donations from people at work.  This is a great way to get additional clothes as well as stimulate conversation.  It is a great way to show others that Jesus cares for the poor through His church and help break the stereotypes.

Any donations can be brought to church on Sunday (make sure you let me know), or you can contact me to arrange a time for me to pick them up or drop them by the church office.

Blessings,

Paul