My "HOPE" Experience by volunteer Rhonda

My “HOPE” Experience

By Volunteer Rhonda Greene

I struggle with depression.  I did not want to get dressed and get off the couch.  Like a stubborn child I ignored the gentle nudge from God.  I said “NO… I don’t wanna!!” {God} Nudge, nudge,…wiggle.  I tried to shut it out and got on Facebook instead.  The HOPE Chest posted that they needed volunteers.  Even for just one hour if that’s what you can spare.  Tornadoes had just ravaged several surrounding communities including Pekin.  Devastation everywhere!  Families lost their homes, flattened to rubble.  Some escaping with just the clothes on their backs.  It’s getting cold out.  The HOPE Chest was accepting donations. {God} “…go”.  I thought – “hmmm…one hour, then back to my jammies and my couch”.

Standing by the back door drop off I saw mountains – of food, clothing, bedding and personal items.  Stacked floor to ceiling.  People were scrambling to get help for others who had been affected.  In addition to tornado relief The HOPE Chest runs a food pantry Tuesdays and Thursdays after 1 pm to help families in need.

Volunteer adults and teens as well as staff were working non-stop to load semi-trucks to aid victims. Donations came from Wisconsin, Virginia…states away.  I dove in heart first.  Ohhh my!  After four hours I went home sore but happy.  I tried to sleep.  {God} “…go tomorrow. I have more to show you.”   Me thinking… “For an hour?” (I think I heard God laugh). 

The next day there was a bread delivery.  People came to pick up bread all day long.  Two bread items and 1 dessert to each family to “share the Love”.  A full table emptied and refilled over and over…many dropping a dollar or two in a donation box to bless others.

The BEST part…the people.   Some were shy not wanting to take too much, some are embarrassed.  They’ve worked their whole lives but circumstances have not been kind.  Haven’t we all “been there’ before?  They are so thankful and appreciative.  Sometimes there are tears…many smiles, hugs are common. The lives touched here range from families dealing with illness, job loss, home loss, tough economic times, and families co-habituating to get by.  God made it possible. The donations we receive help…The donations you give help. 

That’s the HOPE Chest…Helping Other People Excel.

Six hours later I’m home feet hurting, back aching, arms falling off, and heart soring face hurting from smiling…Thank you God!  That was awesome… {God} “I love you!...go tomorrow.”

I just laughed and laughed…

And by the way…

Can you spare one hour?

Rhonda on the left with new friends who also volunteered. Thanks Ladies!!! We hope you were blessed!