From a Holiday Assistance Client:

I know that a tremendous thank you is fully deserved and due to the generous and amazing wonderful families who donate their time and money to adopt other families who are not able to have much of a Christmas, but my heart is also very compelled to thank everyone at HFS.

All of the staff and volunteers at HFS have always been so kind.  HFS has been a place of refuge for me when I have fallen onto hard times and when I come into HFS I am welcomed and greeted in love. I am helped with an attitude of sincerity, never judgment, never any negativity. I am helped so greatly by HFS not only to put some extra food in my cupboards but to leave with a heart full of encouragement by the kindness, compassion, and love shown to me by all who give their time to HFS.

Sometimes it’s not just our pantry and refrigerator that need filling. People in need are usually also dealing with a great sadness, worry, anxiety, depression and a sense of being overwhelmed. I know this firsthand. I work two jobs, have four children and although I do as much as I can it still isn’t enough. That is so discouraging!

So please accept my most sincere thank you and appreciation for also meeting the needs of my heart! My goal is to some day be on the other side of the blessing and help others. I know some day I can and I will. I have been there, and will be able to connect with those hurting hearts.

I cannot thank HFS enough and all involved in the programs who enable families to have a holiday with the burdens lifted from their spirit & replaced with joy.

Much gratitude!

Love,

Cindy

Making a Difference...

From An Anonymous Donor:

A young woman brought in this donation—$100 cash. Their home has a mold problem and they had to move out. Neighbors took a collection for them and gave them this money. She brought it to us saying she heard we were in need of cash donations.

“We couldn’t take the money. We have a home, it is fixable, we just need to make a few more payments now. We’ll be okay. There are others who may not have a coat or house or whose utilities are shut off—they need the money. Merry Christmas.”

She didn’t leave a name or number but she got a big hug and took it willingly!

Making a Difference...

From A Volunteer:

Thank you for the nice certificate of appreciation and the chocolate; that was very kind and thoughtful of you. I enjoy being a Meals on Wheels volunteer. It has enabled me to get to know many very nice people.

I have also enjoyed working at the Clothes Closet. It has been a real eye-opener for me to learn about the services you offer people in Hastings. You are all so welcoming, sincere, and just fun to work with! I have a huge amount of respect for all of you and the work you do.

Thanks for sponsoring the volunteer dinner. We really enjoy the evening and appreciate the dinner. It is fun to see all of the volunteers associated with Hastings Family Service.

Thanks again for all you do!

Sincerely,

Jane

Thank You Letter from Chris Koop, Executive Director of Hastings Family Service