One day at Tompkins Square Park, Linda was looking
through the clothing at the clothing table.
She shared with Amy and I that she finally got her own apartment after
being in the shelter with her son for several years. She mentioned she’s been looking for
furniture but it was hard for her to pick it up since she doesn’t have a car
and she was in need of a table, a chair, and a sofa.
“Really? We
may be able to help with that. Could I
get your contact information?” I knew of
a table, some chairs, and a loveseat that just became available the day
before. I was feeling the tug on my
heart to try and do something to help.
But it seemed like a long shot since she lives in Brooklyn and we’re in
Queens... but thankfully, it worked out! We were able to bring the furniture
over the next day. When we told her we were coming, she began to tear up. She
could not hide her gratitude.
Knowing that Linda was in need of more than just
furniture, we put together a few bags of dry goods, produce, and toiletries. We
packed all the food, gifts, and furniture in the van and went to her apartment.
She was elated at our arrival and was pleasantly surprised by the extra gifts. It turned out that she had just ran out of deodorant and their food
supply was scarce. She loved the table, the chairs, and the sofa, and we were
able to set it up for her right away. There was also an extra futon mattress
that we brought for her son's bed along with a few pillows.
Meeting Linda was certainly a divine appointment,
and God's timing in bringing us together was perfect. She's been through a lot
the past few years and all of her struggles really challenged her faith in God and
her confidence in the Church. However, we believe that through these simple
acts of love and generosity God is beginning to remind her of His faithfulness.
