by Lisa Thomas, Director TBFS
Greetings from Twice Blessed Free Store and Story Church! As we step into the beautiful season of autumn, we want to share some exciting updates and events from the past few months.
In August, we were blessed to host our 1st Annual Story Church Block Party. It was nothing short of AMAZING! With a turnout of 150 people, the event was a resounding success. We danced, ate, and celebrated all afternoon. The kids had a blast in the bounce house. The free food was a big hit (thank you Michael Parry for cooking all the burgers and dogs), and the prayer tent was a comforting presence in the midst of all the fun and excitement. To cap the day off, Ezekiel Perez was our big winner in our bicycle giveaway! He was very excited to take home the bike donated by the Cleveland Police Community Engagement Officers. We are so grateful to everyone who contributed to the success of this event.
September was a month of accomplishment as we completed many important projects within the church. The newly constructed ADA bathroom turned out beautifully, along with the new flooring in both the café area and downstairs in the kitchen. The painting and reconfiguring of the TBFS area has really opened up the space and made it much more inviting. Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers who helped with that project!
In October, we joyfully opened our doors again after three long months of closure. Our shoppers and congregation were happy to finally see us and we were thrilled to see them! It was a great reunion and we could not be happier to get back into the swing of things. If you are interested in volunteering and would like to help out on Saturday mornings or on Monday sorting days, please let Lisa know via email at LThomas@rrumc.org. We would love for you to join our team!
As we approach the holiday season, my heart is full of gratitude for all that we have been given this past year. In the spirit of gratefulness, I want to thank each and every person for their amazing contribution to this important ministry. Without your support of donations (both physical and financial), volunteering, and presence, this ministry could not continue to do the important work that it does in this Cleveland neighborhood. Please know that I take nothing for granted and know the amount of time, energy, and commitment it takes to volunteer week after week. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
May God’s love and grace continue to shine upon you and this ministry and may you have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving holiday.
