Bethune Elementary UPDATE!

WOW! I could hardly believe my eyes this morning when I did my daily check on the 500uniforms.org site. They have raised $10,046!!! When I checked on Friday, it was only at $4400! It more than doubled over the weekend. I also got an email this morning from Shaun King, pastor at The Courageous Church, which said they had enough money to purchase 367 out of 500 uniforms needed. (I'm certain there have been more funds given since his calculation, but it's fairly close.) His email thanked the people that have donated and also asked for three things:

1. Would you pray for the success of our endeavor @ http://500uniforms.org ?
2. Would you spread the word by telling others all about it on your blogs, social networks, and with your friends and family?
3. Would you consider purchasing uniforms and toys for the children of Bethune as gifts for your friends and family?

God is definitely in the miracle working business! Let's continue to PRAY and, if you haven't already donated, please consider doing so!

'Tis the season - Part 2

Still looking for a way to share the Christmas spirit this holiday season? Here's another one for you: Operation Christmas Child sponsored by Samaritan's Purse International.

Here's the link: http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/occ/

Basically, you choose an age group and a gender. Then fill a standard size shoe box with goodies for that child. Wrap the box (if you choose) and put a printable label on it (available on the website). Take the box, along with $7 to cover shipping, to one of the designated drop-off locations. Don't know where to find a local drop-off location? Just enter your zip code on the website and it will give you a list of locations near you.

Let's all bring a little joy and hope to some children living in desperate situations all around the world through the simple gift of a shoe box. This is the perfect opportunity to teach your children and grandchildren about the blessings of giving to those less fortunate. I'm going to have both of my girls each fill a shoe box for a little girl their age and donate it this year. Don't delay though...National Collection Week is November 17-24.

"Tis the season...

Let's be real....you and I both already know that the true meaning of the Christmas has been hijacked and replaced with credit cards and consumerism. I'm sure you don’t need another lesson on the reason for the season, but maybe you do need an opportunity to celebrate it's true meaning. If so, the children of Bethune Elementary in downtown Atlanta are waiting for you. A whopping 98% of these kids live at or below the poverty level and a local church is trying to get enough money to buy each child a new school uniform ($25) and a new toy ($15) for Christmas.

I challenge you to reach out to these children in need. I did and it feels good to know that such a small donation can make a huge difference in their lives. Don't hesitate...make your contribution today! Any amount will be greatly appreciated since they only have roughly $3700 toward their goal of $21,000. The donation drive ends December 2nd so be sure to share the website with others (friends, family, church, blog readers) and together we can make this holiday season something to remember for these deserving kids!

Here's the website: http://www.500uniforms.org/

DISCLAIMER: I do not know these people and I am not affiliated with them in any way. I believe the Holy Spirit led me to find out about them and has laid it upon my heart to share their story. Therefore, if my small efforts helps lead others to participate in God's plan for these children, then I am honored to have been a part.