January General Membership Meeting

It wonderful to see everyone last night, after what seemed to be a long holiday break. With a lot of League work opportunities in the coming months, I am looking forward to spending some of the hard earned funds, raised at our super-successful Merry Market, on our new and improved community projects. With so many projects upcoming, last night's Guest Speaker was just the inspiration to kick off the year. As Director of the Mission, Pastor David Berry and his wife have made extraordinary sacrifices and progress at the Mission. There was barely a dry eye in the house when he was literally moved to tears, recalling recent success stories. I keep thinking about his presentation from last night and one of the most poignant perspectives was that "alcoholism and drugs are a by-product of homlessness, not the cause." While I am a dedicated volunteer at heart, I think how often I quickly jump to a conclusion that assumes the reverse. With a colder than normal week ahead, please keep the Mission in mind for warm winter coats and clothing as well as a few other key ndonations that the Mission currently has a high demand for: shoes, men's Clothes, women's undergarmets, feminine products, hygiene products (hotel samples are great). The mission also accepts previously opened food items. The mission currently serves between 300-350 meals per day. By providing a place for a shower and laundry, computers for job searches or apply for food stamps (we were all shocked to learn that you can only apply for food stamps online now? huh??) empowers struggling individuals to apply at Labor Force or make attempts at an honest wage, other then turning to destructive or illegal activity for money. Thank you to Grant Piche', longtime Mission board member and GM for Texas Cattle Company and Pastor David Berry for enlightening and inspiring us on how we can further serve our community.