A note from the Director of Grateful Hearts

Though I never anticipated the dramatic changes that both myself and Grateful Hearts would be experiencing this year, I can honestly say that God (through his grace and faithfulness) has made a way for us to continue helping those who are hurting. (And in what I believe will be even more impactful than in our former days).

After working tirelessly for close to 3 months, a small team of volunteers helped us succeed in providing Christmas meals for hundreds of struggling individuals and families while simultaneously closing our 8,000 sq ft warehouse! In addition to that, we are already moving forward with the transition of Grateful Hearts NEW mission and we are excited to share some of the details with you!

1. The extension/continuation of our “Freedom program”. (formerly incarcerated individuals and ex-gang members) This is already underway and successfully providing life changing opportunities for those who are in need of a second chance!
   We will continue providing educational opportunties through work training, cooking and baking classes as well as seeking to provide mental health support through workshops and various support groups (hosted @Pietrini Pizza during both day and night time hours)
2. Our Sky program (so named because the sky’s the limit when it comes to what these folks are capable of!) is also continuing for adults with special needs, teaching them work, life and personal/social skills in an encouraging and affirming environment.
3. We will be restructuring our assistance programs to both active and Veteran military personnel, as well as our food assistance programs for food insecure individuals & families including the development of our “Neighbors Table” (Italian: Tavolo Dei Vicini- more details to come)
4. Continuation of our holiday programs which include:
   • Annual toy drive
   • White Christmas program (collection and distribution of new socks, t-shirts and underwear)
   • Holiday dinners for the less fortunate.

Other plans are in the making for which are seeking counsel, and we covet your prayers as we humbly ask for wisdom as we step into this new chapter.

Please take a few moments to watch and listen to Jeffrey’s story. He is a former GH employee, who is now serving as an outreach case manager for a large non profit!

We are so proud of what he has done with his life, and are grateful to have had a small part in his amazing transformation!