All of us at Hope Lutheran hope that you had a wonderful Christmas, and we thank the Congregation for the great support we received throughout 2011.
In December, we thank those who supported the Lord’s Pantry annual Christmas toy collection drive which collected toys for needy children in Santa Clara County.
We thank the Congregation for their support of the Hope Pantry throughout the year. None of this would be possible without the support of Hope’s people, who donate food (and money), buy food, sort food, and distribute the grocery bags distributed each month.
Special thanks to all who contributed money for the Christmas bag project. As I write this article, we are distributing these groceries to the poor in our neighborhood. And because of the Congregation’s generosity, we have been able to augment our Christmas bags with means allowing our clients to buy fresh milk, fruits, and vegetables for their holiday meals, and we still have funds left over for Hope’s Pantry.
Regarding the Pantry, incidentally, Hope’s Pan-Tree will remain open for collections of food through the 12 days of Christmas – that is – until Epiphany.) We could also use some helpers to assist with the food purchasing, sorting, and grocery bag assembly throughout the year. In January, Hope’s Boy Scout Troop 74 has stepped up to this task. However, we have open slots for “Pantry Partners” for months later in the year. Please contact Loretta or Mark Greiner if you can assist, this year.
Looking ahead to 2012, we again plan to hold soup suppers during Lent. In April and again in June, the San Jose Family Supportive Housing shelter is looking forward to Hope preparing a meal for their residents. And the CROP Walk returns this April.
Our next Social Ministries meeting will be held in the Fireside Room on February 7. (We’re taking a break from meetings this month.) See everyone next month.
Happy New Year!
Mark Greiner, Chair