23 guests with full bellies.

Tonight was amazing.

23 guests with full bellies.

A group of healthcare workers from Advocate Christ Hospital came to serve pizza, salad and my soup.

We ALSO had our #31DaysOfGiving basket drop off and I had 2 amazing volunteers that signed up to help. Mom Kat and son Patrick, I could not of gotten that all done today without you. And one of our wonderful always supporters Joi, decided she wanted to spend the evening with us, and she just showed up to help. And we definitely took advantage of the extra hands.

While Sarah covered downstairs, Mel, Kat, Patrick, and Joi all tackled all small but necessary organization projects Sarah hasn’t had any time to get done.

We gathered all our tubs of winter gear, and organized and consolidated into clear bins so Sarah can see what we have very quickly. We then brought some beautiful hats, scarves and gloves downstairs to put out for the taking. More than a few friends left dawning new colorfully crocheted gear.

We also stocked pantry shelves.

Combined pop tabs we’ve been collecting.

Today’s memorable moment is when one of our friends was getting stocked up with some winter gear on his way out and Sarah gave him a hug. He blurted out loud, “I haven’t had a mom hug in a loooooong time.” That just broke my heart in two right there, but then put it back together thinking he went home full, better protected from the weather, and feeling seen and loved.

Sarah also sent numerous friends home with gas money, food, hygiene and household items. Nearly every friend leaves with full hands each week.

And the baskets, I am just so humbled by the participation. The back pain of carrying over 30 baskets up and down stairs is completely worth it!

All together we got more than 50 baskets donated! Of at least 31 items each!!! And in so many baskets I could see more than 31 items.

Amazing. Beautiful. Generous.

You all are!

Don’t forget to tell us you participated on our survey - just a couple quick fields so we know who to thank!

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VTSHZ6C

Thank you,

Mel