Brrr...

November 18, 2011

Didn’t we all see some of the white stuff to remind ourselves that summer is gone and winter is here? Now that the temperatures are falling, the shorts, short-sleeved shirts and sandals are now in the closets waiting for next spring. We are all getting out our long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, mittens, gloves, stocking hats, winter coats, thermal underwear and boots. In the midst of this yearly exchange it is easy to think nothing other than wishing we lived somewhere warmer.

Recently as I was walking across the parking lot on a cold morning, I was stopped by a man I estimate to be in his early thirties. After saying hello, he asked me if we were hiring. While stating we did not have any openings I noticed he was wearing only a light windbreaker. "Do you have a winter coat?" I asked. "No, this is all that I have!"

Shortly after this conversation, he left our office with a warm, heavy leather coat, gloves and a sack of food that some generous persons donated to us.

Then there is the story of a young man battling cancer without any warm clothing either. He came to us asking for assistance. He was referred to us by a concerned individual who knew in her heart that we would help him. Looking back, he had the look of someone in dire need. For some people, asking for help is the hardest thing to do. After further questioning, and a home visit, we found out he was heating his small apartment with his oven with the door opened and needed furniture as well. Only because of our loving patrons were we able to give him some warm winter clothing, food, pay his utility bill, help him obtain his medicines to battle his cancer and bring over some needed furniture.

I wish I had a dollar for every time John McDermott has said, "Father, your Seedlings column is the most powerful tool we have to spread the word!" We could have a pizza party for all of our volunteers! Every time I have mentioned a need in this column, generous loving people have responded. Not only are we truly grateful for the help of our benefactors, I am not kidding when I say we pray for you every day as an agency.

Every year around this time, people from across the diocese donate winter coats, sweaters, scarves, gloves, mittens, boots, stocking hats, and other warm winter clothing items to Catholic Social Services. Now that we have four permanent sites, distributing them to those in need is getting easier every year.

Please consider donating any of the above mentioned items to one of our four sites across the diocese, Imperial, Hastings, Lincoln or Auburn. In addition, if you know of anyone in need of warm winter clothing, please contact us so we can make arraignments to getting the needed clothing to those individuals and families who need them. By working together, we will continue making a difference in the lives of many.

Please know that we at Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska will keep you, your family and intentions in our prayers. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us, Immaculate Heart of Mary, St. Joseph and all of the angels and saints in Heaven, pray for us!