Over a year ago I was sitting in my living room, talking to Greg and Donna, folks who would later become co-conspirators in Love Wins. Donna was telling me and my wife, Suzanne about her brother, who had once been homeless. She mentioned to us how his biggest need had been shoes and socks. After thinking about that for a while, we decided to start purchasing work boots for the men and women who need them.
Suzanne and I, together with the help of the friends of Love Wins, have been able to buy almost 100 pair of shoes since starting this in January, 2008. In that time, we have seen some incredible reactions from people when they get their new shoes. Here are just a few stories from those ninety.
One man nearly wept as he realized he could get work at a local construction project.
One woman was able to throw away the torn-up shoes she had on and go back to working as a waitress.
We take orders for shoes in advance. One man thanked me three times, not seeming to believe that someone would deliver on a promise to him. I feel we restored a little hope in his heart to trust people again.
One man quickly sat down in the dirt and put the new shoes on, throwing away the worn out, hole riddled pair he had been wearing.
When we bring down new shoes, it is a gift to see how excited each of them get. I love being a part of that. It has allowed me to find a way into their difficult lives and let them know that I care about them. It only takes about an hour a week to do this, but it impacts and forms my whole week. For them it is shoes and a chance to go to work and for me it is a key into getting to know them and letting them know that we love them.
Note from Hugh: It costs us about $30 to buy one pair of steel toe work boots. If you would like to buy a pair for someone, you can donate $30 via PayPal (you don’t have to have a PayPal account) by going to our donate page. Thanks!
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Hi I am Dave, Donna’s bother that was homeless for years. I came to visit last month from Washington State, and very impressed with what I saw. I remember how hard it was living on the streets, especially during the Winter months. But it was groups like “Love Wins Ministries” that made it bearable to live. I was very impressed with the sincere relationship they have with Donna and Greg, that is only gained through Love and Trust. I was also impressed with those I met. They were friendly and caring people.
Praying daily, I thank the Lord for my sobriety and His blessings. And specially for people like those who help those less fortunate. God bless, David Pedal
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