Every Child Deserves to Smile
The Every Child Deserves to Smile Project has remained a strong supporter of homeless children and their families residing in a motel setting here in Saugus since April 2011. The Every Child Deserves to Smile ministry continues its mission to provide a ray of light in the lives of children residing in motel accommodations along the Route 1/99 corridor. In the past several years, our ministry has grown from the delivery of a collection of books to include preparation & delivery of meals, organization and delivery of birthday parties-in-a-bag, and collections of basic, essential items such as clothing, toiletries, and diapers.
This year, with the help of several volunteers, we have:
· Collected necessary items--from diapers and clothing to paper products and summer activities.
· Responded to a specific plea for aid in procuring back-to-school clothing.
· Supported the Saugus Fire Department’s annual Toy Drive and the Back-to-School supplies collection held by Mass.
Coalition for the Homeless, both of which assist the children residing in the motel our ministry reaches.
· Networked with area churches and support services and served as the liaison to maximize the aid we can render
to a homeless child and family in our community.
Our ministry has reached beyond the doors of St. John’s and into the community. Our volunteer workforce has grown and been strengthened by many who have lifted their hands and hearts in service and prayer.
This year, with members of three Saugus churches in collaboration, we have the potential to increase the impact we make in our community and in the lives of homeless children. To fulfill that potential, quarterly meetings will continue to be held to develop ideas and implement plans that will influence boundless opportunities for us to make a difference. All are welcome to attend these meetings held the first Thursday in March, June, September, and December.
“Thank you to all the smile makers who believe in the preservation of a child’s childhood. Your offering of love and kindness is the inspiration which drives The Every Child Deserves to Smile ministry. The giving of one’s self and time lights a light within. May your light shine through you and be a beacon for those who have not yet felt that uplifting experience.” Jeanne
This year, with the help of several volunteers, we have:
· Collected necessary items--from diapers and clothing to paper products and summer activities.
· Responded to a specific plea for aid in procuring back-to-school clothing.
· Supported the Saugus Fire Department’s annual Toy Drive and the Back-to-School supplies collection held by Mass.
Coalition for the Homeless, both of which assist the children residing in the motel our ministry reaches.
· Networked with area churches and support services and served as the liaison to maximize the aid we can render
to a homeless child and family in our community.
Our ministry has reached beyond the doors of St. John’s and into the community. Our volunteer workforce has grown and been strengthened by many who have lifted their hands and hearts in service and prayer.
This year, with members of three Saugus churches in collaboration, we have the potential to increase the impact we make in our community and in the lives of homeless children. To fulfill that potential, quarterly meetings will continue to be held to develop ideas and implement plans that will influence boundless opportunities for us to make a difference. All are welcome to attend these meetings held the first Thursday in March, June, September, and December.
“Thank you to all the smile makers who believe in the preservation of a child’s childhood. Your offering of love and kindness is the inspiration which drives The Every Child Deserves to Smile ministry. The giving of one’s self and time lights a light within. May your light shine through you and be a beacon for those who have not yet felt that uplifting experience.” Jeanne