FAMILY PROMISE/IHN
By Marilyn McAfee
It is with sadness that I respond to the article in The Toledo Blade concerning the suspension of operations of Family Promise/Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN). Toledo’s economy and job loss has tremendously affected our ability to raise adequate income to assist families who have become homeless. However, this is NOT the end of IHN. Yes, Family Promise is a non-profit mission supported in part by churches/congregations also non-profits. And like congregations, we too depend (except for the Director) on volunteers to support this mission. Volunteers are the most important asset of Family Promise. Volunteers must have a sincere passion for understanding the helplessness of a child who has no choices – even wiping a runny nose or giving a hi-five; the willingness to step up and hug a worried parent and provide some comfort or confidence that soon things will be better. And then, carry that passion forward by helping to raise funds so that this small but great mission can continue to serve our community.
As a friend of Family Promise, we know how our efforts change lives. I can assure you there is hope! A “restart” team has been formed; they are energized. When will the doors reopen? That will depend on people like you and me stepping up to help. If you would like to be a part of the start-up team, please contact Loran Miracle, pastor of The Church of Saint Andrew at 419-385-6160. If you would like to make a tax deductible gift, please send your check to Family Promise of Greater Toledo, C/O The Church of Saint Andrew, 3620 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, OH 43614. Every day we are closed means another night on the street for a homeless child.
God has been with us in the past and we ask for His continued guidance now. We ask also that you keep us in your prayers. Thank you for your concerns and support of Family Promise/IHN.
As a friend of Family Promise, we know how our efforts change lives. I can assure you there is hope! A “restart” team has been formed; they are energized. When will the doors reopen? That will depend on people like you and me stepping up to help. If you would like to be a part of the start-up team, please contact Loran Miracle, pastor of The Church of Saint Andrew at 419-385-6160. If you would like to make a tax deductible gift, please send your check to Family Promise of Greater Toledo, C/O The Church of Saint Andrew, 3620 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, OH 43614. Every day we are closed means another night on the street for a homeless child.
God has been with us in the past and we ask for His continued guidance now. We ask also that you keep us in your prayers. Thank you for your concerns and support of Family Promise/IHN.
