Our volunteers prepared a big order for a client of CT CASA. The Program Director whose clients we help out as called upon wrote us a beautiful note of appreciation. We want our donors to see how much we do together is needed and appreciated. We hope it warms your heart as it did ours:

"I have one more family! This mom has just been reunited with her children and moved into an apartment. She has a full mattress and 4 twins. Please let me know if you are able to help!

We appreciate you so much! The family we dropped things off to last night was so overjoyed! They could not believe your generosity. Thank you so much for all that you do."

The video below shows three separate orders prepared last Tuesday for families reuniting and in need.

In mid December, DCF social worker Donique contacted us about providing sheets, blankets, towels, and toiletries for a household of five moving into permanent/stable housing. The order was placed on hold until the family was able to get some beds. This past week, we provided all the requested items as they finally had beds. Often times, getting housing is only a first step in restarting a life after homelessness or family separation. Our mission is to help these families make their new digs more than just "a roof over their heads", but rather into a home where they can live in comfort and with dignity. Our LOL's team members, Phyllis, Maria, and Gada, were so happy for this family’s fresh new start and enjoyed choosing items from our shelves for them to enjoy. Thank you, Donique, for your commitment to the families in your care and for letting us help you support them.

We were super busy filling orders last week! We provided for five families and one individual. Plus, we donated some brand new blankets and sheets to Columbus House's Recovery House, a short-term program for 17 men (including 7 Veterans) who are awaiting placement in sober housing, treatment programs, or permanent housing with out-patient treatment support. We are so thankful for this week’s opportunities to help a neighbor in need!

It is a note like this that really drives home the good we hope to do:

"Hello! I dropped everything off this morning and mom was SO APPRECIATIVE. She just could not believe that there was so much help for her family. This morning, everyone shared one towel and now there are enough towels for everyone – plus the towels are so nice. Thank you again for bringing so much comfort and joy to a family that is really trying so hard to succeed. Your gifts are like a great big hug for everyone in this precious family.

With great appreciation,"

Vallerie at CT CASA

Maria and Phyllis were busy at work today putting together an order for a family of four that is being reunified in a new apartment. We were excited to be able to offer them a microwave and some pots and pans in addition to providing for their bedding needs. THANK YOU to our friend and supporter, John, for his wonderful donation of the microwave.

We received this note from one of the social workers/case managers we work with:

"I dropped off the bedding, towels, toiletries, dishes and silverware yesterday. They were very much appreciated. This mom has not always been a fan of mine since I was one of the people who helped to remove several of her children, but she could not contain her joy. She is working hard to rebuild her life after losing her housing and now having just secured a safe apartment. She was so appreciative. Thank you for all that you do. This has made such a big difference not only because now she has some nice things but also because she feels supported. YOU ARE THE BEST!!!”

A note like this reminds us that we are part of a larger network of helpers who try to support those who are struggling to get back on their feet. We are honored to be a part of this effort to make others feel supported and loved.

#endhomelessnesstogether #endhomelessnessnow #helpyourcommunity #breakingthecycleofpoverty #communitylove

We had the wonderful opportunity of providing bedding and pillows for alumni of St. Martin De Porres Academy in New Haven who are heading off to college in August. We feel honored to play a small part in providing support, love, and comfort to these young people as they move on to the next phase of their education. May they always be inspired to use the gifts and talents that SMDA nurtured in them for the greater glory of God and the good of their neighbors.

A Wink From God

Last week, we received a donation of pink onesies, a cute pink baby's bath towel, and a brand new stuffed animal. These are definitely not items we normally receive or give out. This week, we received a request from one of the agencies we work with for bedding for a couple and their new baby girl. We could not help but pause at this seeming coincidence. We are often stupefied at the timing of donations and requests. This was one of those times! It calls to mind Psalm 34, "This poor man called, and the LORD heard him..."

Phyllis