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7 selections of fresh vegetables
6 selections of
fresh fruits
7 varieties of
frozen meats
5 bags of
non-perishables
1 bag of paper
products and personal care items
Gifts from a Secret Pal
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As young adults, we often map out our lives to
fit our ownexpectations and those of society. This visualization may find us
financially prosperous, surrounded by close friends or a loving family, in a
fulfilling career, or possibly all three . At a young age, this assured
happiness seems guaranteed to last through our “golden years,” as we can
then watch fondly and comfortably as the next generation continues the
cycle. However, not everyone lives this planned life. Illness, poverty, and
unforeseen circumstances can devastate those dreams of the future. A new
senior in our program, 66 year-old George finds himself faced with these
challenges in a strained and complex life. Thanks to your assistance we can
now help alleviate the difficult burdens George must face every day. We
would like to take this opportunity to share with you some information so
you can get to know a little about the senior into whose life you are
bringing happiness.
George grew up in
Mississippi, but moved to Peoria with his parents and two sisters as a
teenager. As African Americans in the 1950’s, the family could not find
acceptance or work, but only racial hatred and injustice. This prompted a
move to Chicago where George’s father could find work only as a restaurant
custodian, furthering the life of poverty already underway. George joined
the army in his twenties and served in the Special Forces for nine years,
including a mentally and emotionally scarring tour in the Vietnam War. This
experience caused him to seek medical assistance upon his return, but he
humbly acknowledges that he “got off easy,” compared to so many others.
Decades later, George met
his future wife, Rhonda, in a Bible Study at their church. Although they
cherish the marriage and family, the financial burden of supporting their
five children is immense. Adding to this weight, George required quadruple
bypass open-heart surgery one year ago and must wait another year for
complete recovery. The pain and potential to destroy the surgical
corrections prevent George from working and even picking up his young
daughter. Rhonda sacrifices an income to take care of George and the three
children under age 6. This family of seven must survive on an income of
$1705 per month.
George’s spirit will not
be broken. Although his situation is unimaginable to many, he finds
happiness in his love for his wife and in the laughter of his children.
Although he is older than most fathers of young children, they seem to
breathe new life into him every morning. With daily chores and child care
enveloping the majority of the parents’ time, social activities and hobbies
are rare, but both George and Rhonda look forward to applying their passion
for religion to courses they will teach at their church this summer. If they
can obtain the proper equipment, the two also hope to begin exercising in
the future as well. Thanks to your support food is one worry this family
will not have to face. George, Rhonda, and all of their children can
continue to share meals together as we share our gratitude with you for your
generosity and compassion.
Things to
Remember about George & Rhonda:
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George’s birthday is October 16, 1938.
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Rhonda’s birthday is March 20, 1968.
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They have 5 children, ages 17, 16, 5, 3, & 2.
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He is very enthusiastic about religion and
reading the Bible.
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