Wednesday, April 19, 2006

Shelter To Start Closing

The Patterson Shelter will close this Saturday. I have grown accustom to the drive and the long hours of shelter work. I am not sure what lies ahead for the folks at the shelter, all I know is they have to find something by Saturday. Even though they are a tough group to work with, I still hurt for them. Life as they knew it changed two weeks ago. They were comfortable making ends meet and squeaking by, now they face uncertain times in new places to live, if they can find something they can afford. The Red Cross will help with first months rent and deposit, which for the first few has been around $2000.oo. It costs alot to live here even in the rural communities. Next month they have to figure out how to pay the rent on their limited incomes. Tommorrow I will go encourage the remaining families (30) to find a new home, tonite I pray for them and for God to give me more compassion as I work with them.
In addition to the shelter clients, I manage a large diverse group of volunteers. So far I have had over 100 volunteers work around the shelter. By the end of the Sheltering in Patterson we will have served over 5000 meals and snacks. I am constantly reminded that all ministry is intentional, rarely does service to others happen by accident. I thank God for all the willing people who have put time in to make life easier for someone in need.

Its late, I'm sleepy

more tommorrow,

Buddy