The First Year

It is hard to believe that the first full year with The Encouragement Project is complete. Starting out last January, I had little idea of what would actually take place in and through this ministry this first year, and how God would lead us in these things. Considering all this makes me excited for what is to come in the New Year and beyond. Let me share a quick overview of what has gone on this past year…
 
At Hugs and Kisses, we started out with the lofty goal of collecting and distributing 100 hats and scarves this year to help those in need of warmth. To date, we have had donations of 316 handmade hats, scarves, lap blankets, baby sweaters, slippers and mittens that have gone to encourage the homeless, low income children, folks at nursing homes, and those helped through crisis pregnancy centers. Additionally, we have been able to start three knitting/crochet circles in local retirement homes, which are a great encouragement to the ladies we visit and work with. They have been prolific in their production of beautifully creative items to give away. We are thrilled to have been able to help so many, and to share God’s love in this way. Thank you to you who have been a part of Hugs and Kisses!

The Book Drop has been another fantastic branch of The Project. We have had incredibly generous donations of 5,766 new and gently used children’s books! These books have been processed and passed along to several different ministries that work with low income children and families. For these children, the gift of a book of their very own is quite exciting! We love sharing literary adventures with these beautiful children.
 
It has also been a blessing to have Writers Block as part of our ministry. What a joy to be able to help missionaries with their writing efforts, updates, websites, and other text editing and design projects. The need for this support is great. This year, we have worked with missionaries in Belgium and Spain, with ministry effects worldwide.