Good News, Even in Times of Uncertainty and Change

 Sent in by Lord of Love in Omaha

“Loads of Love” laundry, hygiene supply pantry fills a need for local families


 

As early as two hours before the event began, on June 26, 2021, cars began to line up at Lord of Love Lutheran Church in Omaha. Neighbors were waiting to receive free laundry and paper products. Since 2019, Lord of Love has held “Loads of Love” several times per year to provide items such as laundry detergent and toilet paper for those in need. These items, though part of the grocery shopping list for many of us, are not eligible for SNAP benefits, meaning some families struggle to get these necessities. 

 

Kathy Christensen and Paula Foster of Omaha realized this through volunteering with neighboring church Holy Cross at their monthly food pantry. In addition, Lord of Love youth and leaders had recently attended a youth gathering in Kearney, where they prepared baskets of laundry and paper hygiene supplies for First Lutheran, who has hosted a similar pantry and served as inspiration for launching the outreach project in Omaha. The name “Loads of Love,” though fitting for Lord of Love, also came from First Lutheran's inspiration. 


To get started, church members donated items and funds, and bulk items were purchased with grants from the Immanuel Foundation and Foresters Financial. Church members continue to support the event through giving, while Kathy and Paula continue to organize the events (including purchasing bulk supplies, storing them, managing day-of logistics, and recruiting volunteers to help with the events).


When COVID-19 reared its ugly head, the event turned into a drive-through event, which ended up running so smoothly, it will probably continue in this format. The items are all pre-packed into large grocery bags and given out, one per family. On June 26, nearly 200 bags were distributed!


For more information about Lord of Love and their ministry visit https://www.facebook.com/LordOfLoveLutheran.


Like Lord of Love, many of the congregations across the synod have found ways to continue to do God's work, even as the world around us continues to change. In these times of uncertainty and transition, there is still good news to share.




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