After seeing that the need was so great, I reached out and was able to gather more supplies for them. On the second day, my family helped deliver toys, a new set of pots and pans, dishes, a small coffee table and 4 kid size chairs (so the kids didn't have to eat on the floor any more), 5 new pillows (they didn't have pillows to go with the new beds), and lots of toys, books, cars and dolls for the kids.

One of the children, a 6 year old boy named Levi has Autism and is non verbal. The first day we were there to deliver the beds, he hid in the closet most of the time. The second day, when we came back with the toys, he was full of joy and laughter. His mom told me that the kids finally were able to sleep through the night since they had beds to sleep on. As we were leaving, I told my 6 year old son Willow to give hugs and say goodbye to his new friends; then Levi turned to me and started blowing me kisses. This first and last expression of love from him to me was like a kiss from Christ Himself. The feelings of love, grace, and mercy just swept over me and I was overcome with emotion. Tears of Joy!

Why am I sharing this? Well, we all need to hear good news today. But also, I am calling for help. The logistics of service are hard sometimes. Care Portal requires 2 or more people to make the connections for safety reasons. I'd love to have more people than just my family be apart of these life changing moments. I know I need to do more on my part in asking for help.

So here is what I need to ensure St. Peter's can Show People Jesus and make a greater impact in our community:

• A team to help shop St. Peter's thrift store for clothing or goods for families.
• A team that would be willing to help deliver. I have a SUV that can hold up to a full size bed.
• A team that could help communicate Care Portal's needs to our St. Peter's community and beyond. One of my biggest donations came from a family that wanted to give away their garage sale left overs to a worthy cause.All I had to do was ask if they'd be willing to donate it to Care Portal.

If you are feeling called into this ministry more, please reach out. My phone is 928-515-9922. Text is okay. You can also reach my personal email for quicker response rev.cdavis@gmail.com

Thank you again, everyone who has ever prayed, donated, delivered, and been mindful of the work St. Peter's does for Care Portal and families in need. God Bless you.

Cheers,

Candice Davis, Vestry Member