Dear Friends,
At just 18 years old, Aaron Lapp, Blessings of Hope’s Inventory Manager, spent Christmas Day in New York City with his family, not by exchanging gifts, but by serving hot chocolate and sloppy joes in a parking lot. What started as a simple act of kindness has since evolved into an annual tradition, made possible through a partnership with Faith Life Ministries.
Faith Life Ministries, nestled in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, has become a beacon of support and compassion for the local community. For nearly a decade, Blessings of Hope has joined them in their incredible mission to uplift those in need. Each year, we send over 30 dedicated employees to assist in an all-day outreach event, and this year was no different.
The day was filled with a deep sense of purpose as our team worked alongside Faith Life Ministries to provide nourishing meals—egg sandwiches for breakfast, hamburgers and hot dogs for lunch, and a variety of snacks, fruit cups, coffee, and other refreshments throughout the day. The church also hosted an uplifting service, complete with live music, dancing, and even bounce houses for the children. Together, we distributed 300 Hands of Hope boxes filled with essential food items to local families.
Hope to NY:
But this day was about more than just meals and entertainment; it was about connection. As we served, we heard stories that brought into focus the very real struggles faced by many in the community. One woman, for instance, shared her heart-wrenching story of losing custody of her son due to substance abuse, with a custody hearing on the horizon. Another man, currently homeless and filled with despair, asked, “How do we have hope in today’s world? I don’t even know how I ended up here.” Another resident lamented the violence that had gripped their neighborhood.
These personal stories reminded us of the urgent need for hope in today’s world. But in the midst of their pain, we saw how compassion, care, and the love of Christ offered a glimpse of hope for those who are struggling. It was a powerful reminder that our efforts—no matter how small—can make a profound difference in someone’s life.
At Blessings of Hope, it is because of your support that we can continue this life-changing work. Your generosity allows us to serve the hungry, comfort the hurting, and bring light into the darkest of situations—one meal and one act of kindness at a time.
As we look ahead, we ask for your continued partnership. Please consider making a gift today to help us keep bringing hope to the hungry and the hurting. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
With gratitude,
Blessings of Hope
Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, And whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8
