Inspiration comes in many forms; a simple gesture can turn a life around. Inspired by generous supporters like you, we often hear from those who have rebuilt their lives at A New Leaf and choose to give back.
Lisa (name changed), a single mother of two and past resident of La Mesita Family Homeless Shelter shared her thoughts recently during a phone conversation. Having lost her job and with no help from family, she felt completely inadequate.
Because of my embarrassment at my family being in a homeless shelter, it was several days before I could look anyone in the eye. It was a few days before Christmas, when I swallowed my pride and accepted a box of gifts, donated by one of your kind supporters. My heart began to melt and it was a turning point.
Staff could help her become empowered and self-reliant, but it took a donor to help wake her up to a new reality; people care about you and will stand behind your decision to turn over a new leaf. In less than a year, things had changed for the better. Today, Lisa wants to do for another family what you have done for her.
The holiday gifts we received contained hope and love in the form of a gift card, necessities and new clothing. From that moment on, I took advantage of the help you provided to change our lives. I still have a ways to go. But I'm not going to wait for ultimate success to start giving back.
I hope that the family you pass my humble gift to will feel the love and support I felt last Christmas and that it will be a positive turning point in their lives.
We ask you to join Lisa and affirm what you feel in your heart by making a generous financial gift on behalf of those in A New Leaf shelters and programs. The impact will be felt by many as it carries forward through those you touch.
Happy holidays to you and yours. Thank you for your continued financial support.
