Welcome Boxes

There's a local church that collects Welcome Boxes for foster kids that I learned about a few years ago. Right before Christmas, I met with Tan and we took the boys shopping to make a couple of these boxes. There is a list of must-haves, like toothpaste and a flashlight, and a suggested list of non-essentials, like toys and books to help fill up the box. We had no trouble finding stuff but it did require explanation so the boys clearly understood the items we purchased weren't for them. That being said, it was cool to engage them in the process of giving.

In other charity-related news, for the third year in a row a group of us got together to help out refugee families through Lutheran Community Services. I didn't take any pics this year but must again remark on how awesome Hen is when it comes time to deliver the packages. I think we sponsored five families in total. All of the family members received new winter coats. I also bought warm clothing for a kid, new pots and pans, a tea kettle, LEGOs, a soccer ball, gloves, scarves, etc. As is becoming the norm, it took more than one trip to haul it all in - and that was just my stuff. Hen insisted on carrying one box filled with presents all by himself. It was so heavy he had to stop twice before we got to the main doors. The people there are always so gracious and grateful. The lady was so nice she even let Hen behind the counter so he could stack all of the presents under the tree they had set up. I tell ya, it does a body good to donate whenever possible.

We'll be looking for more opportunities to give. I'd like to add good works that involve acts of service. If you have any suggestions and happen to stumble across this blog post, please share them. The Oregon Food Bank is already on my radar, and they encourage kids as young as 6 to participate in the stocking of supplies.