EXPERIENCE THE JOY IN GIVING

I have never sat with someone in their last hours on this earth and heard them say they wished they had spent more time at the office.  I have, however, heard them talk about their love of family and friends.  I’ve listened to reflections on the joy they’ve felt in making a difference and helping others. 

Recently I sat with a family going through the pain of just such a situation, and I have been given permission to share their story.

Brian was a faithful Hope Clinic volunteer, joyfully serving in the pantry, as a donation runner, and other jobs.  He was out in the community, too, encouraging others to engage with the ministry.

In late October, Brian entered hospice, and three days later was called home to God.

He shared with his family that the memorial he wanted was for his friends to bring a truckload of food for the Hope Clinic pantry.  Even when he was in pain and not easily able to communicate, he shouted out, ‘Hope Clinic. Truck’ because he was concerned about getting food to the pantry. When a hospice staff member heard that he was a volunteer, she stopped in her tracks. “Oh my goodness, Hope Clinic saved me!  Years ago, I lost my job.  I was a single mother with a baby at home.  Hope provided so much for me—food, support, and diapers.”  Turning to Brian, she said, “Thank you for being a volunteer!”

Brian’s dying wish was to serve at Hope Clinic one last time.  He didn’t make it. 

But we can.

We can make a difference serving others in Jesus’ name, serving the whole person with free medical and dental care, food and behavioral health.  

At this time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we invite you to give generously of your time, talent, and treasure.  And feel the joy in giving, as Brian did.

With warm regards,

M. Douglas Campbell

CEO