Early on Saturday morning, Eric and his family were honest about some of the challenges they were facing. Eric had been identified by a local school as "at-risk", and I was given his name. After the meeting I took Eric to the local rec center for sports performance. Reflecting on the families challenges, I risked a question.
"Hey, Eric, I have a friend who wants to help families out with groceries for Thanksgiving. Do you think this is something your family could use?"
"Definitely."
Eric, Allen, (another youth) and I met Bryan (a seasoned volunteer, and board member) at the Costco and started picking out various groceries for Thanksgiving. Bryan had the guys Email story continued... choose what they wanted, and at the end we had salmon, turkey, chicken, macaroni and cheese, and no pumpkin pie.
Thanksgiving Day I received this text. "Happy Thanksgiving. I know I just met you, but I'm thankful that I did." -Eric
In those moments, persistence in connecting with Eric and his family had a personal payoff. Families like Eric and Allen are often in the societal margins, disconnected from traditional help. They take time, persistence, and flexibility to connect with.
I love helping guys like Eric and Allen
In order for me to keep reaching out to guys like Eric and Allen, I need to raise an additional $5,000 to cover the cost of outreach. Providing transportation to youth, maintaining the special insurance that is required, purchasing gym memberships, providing athletic gear, and replacing aging athletic equipment costs appx. $420 a month and are a huge part of reaching youth like Eric and Allen.
Will you prayerfully consider covering one month of outreach expense by December 31st? This will enable us to continue to reach more youth like Eric and Allen. Or, if you are able, would you consider making a donation of $50 or $100 a month toward this goal? Please pray for us as we reach out to kids in the Denver area who need to know that Jesus cares for them.
Your donations are tax deductible. Please consider Turning Point of the City as you plan your year-end giving.
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