Tuesday, December 20, 2011 Holiday Dinner at the
Opportunity Center for the Homeless
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For the past several weeks, we have begun to see the signs of the holidays approaching. Local malls and businesses across our community have begun to advertise for the holiday shoppers, decorations are being hung, lists are being prepared, and menus are being planned.
For over 1,400 homeless men, women, and children in our community, the hopes of decorating a tree, planning that holiday menu, and extra trips to the mall are just a dream. Many of the area’s homeless dream of the day when they too can do that special holiday shopping and have family over to their own home for Christmas dinner. For some, that dream can happen soon; for others, only time will tell.
As the holidays approach, the Opportunity Center for the Homeless will be gearing up for an increase of homeless individuals coming into the Center, seeking services, shelter, and that all important hot and nutritious meal. With the weather getting colder, we are starting to see more and more people asking for support. We have already seen a record night during this last snow where 353 homeless guests came into our various facilities. As always, the Center will open its doors to all the homeless who come to our door and make them feel welcome in their greatest time of need. For some, this welcome is the first step towards the changing of their lives.
Today, I urge you to consider sending a special gift to the Opportunity Center for the Homeless to help us provide for the homeless—one meal and one bed at a time! Our Website is now available at www.homelessopportunitycenter.org for an easier method of supporting us.
Thanksgiving is over and Christmas is just around the corner. Help us to be better prepared this year in assuring the needs of the homeless are met. With so many mouths to feed, food items are always welcome. At this time of year, warm clothing, socks, and underwear are always in demand. Your gift to the Opportunity Center for the Homeless will assure that no one goes without this holiday season.
From our extended family to you and yours, I wish you a pleasant and happy Holiday Season.
Gratefully,
Raymond M. Tullius, Jr.
Executive Director