connecting North River families and friends with serving opportunities
in our community that encourage and support our neighbors in need
North River Chapter
North River’s Care Ministry envelops 3 important initiatives that provide ongoing opportunities to serve our communities:
1) Gratitude Packs for Veterans
2) Care Packs for those experiencing homelessness
3) POPP Backpacks for young men in juvenile detention centers
GRATITUDE PACKS FOR VETERANS
We are incredibly excited to partner with the new VA Clinic in Marietta! We would like to offer a Gratitude Pack to encourage and uplift veterans who walk through their door. Each Gratitude Pack will include a healthy beverage and snack and a handwritten card thanking these brave men and women for their service and sacrifices.
Gratitude Packs provide a great opportunity for family and community groups to serve together. Talk to your family group leaders about planning a packing party! Family group leaders can pick up red, white, and blue baggies from the church, and group members can contribute the items that go inside.
Individuals of all ages can write cards of encouragement. Here are two examples:
Please read our Gratitude Bookmark to remember the “why” of honoring our veterans. If you would like one or want to get some to share with your family group before a packing day, you can pick up these bookmarks in the HOPE Depot in the Lighthouse or at the HOPE worldwide table in the lobby on any given Sunday.
CARE PACKS
Care Packs are small packs of sanitary/hygiene items, non-perishable food items, a Connection Card that points to valuable local resources, and a Care Card to share encouragement and human connection. Care Packs are distributed to individuals who are experiencing homelessness; mini-packs fit well in purses or backpacks, full-size packs can be kept in your vehicle, and women's packs include sanitary products as well as the usual items. We can encourage our unhoused neighbors with a genuine hello, a smile, and a Care Pack!
Connection Cards
You can visit the HOPE Depot in the Lighthouse for printed out Connection Cards or print out your own using the links below. If you need one for a different area, create a customized card here!
Atlanta Area
Cherokee
Gwinnett
Kennesaw/Acworth
Marietta
West Cobb
Care Cards
Grab a handwritten Care Card from the HOPE Depot, or write your own! These sample cards provide great examples of what you can include:
Greeting
Hello Friend, Dear Neighbor
Body
Here’s your opportunity to connect! Include encouraging scripture(s). Offer your prayers. Let them know they are loved and seen by God. Think of what you might want or need to hear from a stranger if you felt discouraged and were living in challenging circumstances.
Salutation
Sign with your (first) name. This makes it feel special and personal.
POPP PACKS
(POWER OF PEACE PROJECT)
For more information on this incredible project led by Kit Cummings, visit this site.
