Greetings from Twice Blessed Free Store and Story Church!
by Lisa Thomas, Pastor of Story Church and Director of TBFS
As the holiday season approaches, we have so much to be thankful for at Story Church and the Twice Blessed Free Store.
God continues to move in beautiful ways through our volunteers, our neighbors, and the ministries that bring us all together.
First, a giant, heartfelt thank you to all our Thursday morning volunteers. Each week, volunteers from Rocky River UMC, Independence UMC, The Help Foundation, and our local community come together to sort donations, restock shelves, and prepare the store for Saturday morning shopping. Your awesome teamwork reminds us that when many hands come together, God’s love multiplies.
Our Meals on Madison program is also gaining great momentum. Each month, more and more folks are gathering to share a hot meal together. Jill and Frank Miller (two Story Church members) have been leading special art and craft projects that give everyone a chance to express themselves while enjoying much needed fellowship.
In November, we were blessed to be visited by students at St. Edward High School, who came by to help prepare for our upcoming Community Christmas Party. They assembled 120 gift bags that will be distributed by Santa on Saturday, December 13th, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. We’re so excited to welcome families from the neighborhood for this joyful event! There will be food, games and crafts for everyone!
As winter sets in, the need for warm clothing continues to grow. We’re seeing more and more requests for coats, boots, hats, gloves, and other winter essentials. If you’re able, please consider donating these items to help our neighbors stay warm this season.
We’re also experiencing a shortage of hygiene supplies. Our regular donor has not been able to provide as much as in the past, but the need remains great. Items like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, and laundry pods make a tremendous difference for families we serve.
And lastly, a word of thanks to everyone who helped with or stopped by our trunk at Cudell Commons’ Big City Boo! We loved connecting with over 200 children on Halloween as we handed out candy and shared some great moments!
Each of these moments reminds us why we do what we do. Thank you for being part of this story. Together, we are making a difference in the heart of Cleveland and beyond!
Blessings for a joyous Christmas and Happy New Year!
With a full heart,
Lisa Thomas
Director, Twice Blessed Free Store
LThomas@rrumc.org