A year ago today NewStarts made one of the most difficult decisions in its history, whether to stay open for the foodbank or whether to close and wait. As many of you know NewStarts usually gets 70% of its income from sales of household items and computers, with this gone none of could imagine how we could continue for very long, but we knew we couldn’t stand by and watch people struggle. As it happens God has blessed us in ways which are nothing if not miraculous, from individual donations of cash and food, through to large grants and a government tender we have been able to support the individuals and families of Bromsgrove, south Birmingham and sometimes further afield for the past year. We have been able to provide 3,878 food parcels, which have fed 11,000 people with 228,000 meals. The food parcels also changed, moving from three day non-perishable food parcels to seven day food parcels with fresh items alongside the non-perishable food.
So on this day of reflection I want to thank all of those who helped us and continue to help us; I want to let all those who are struggling know we are still here to help; I want to thank the team for all the hard work they have put in.
Today I will stand in silence at 12 and remember all those who grieve, whether the loss of a loved-one or the loss of a life they once had. Tonight at 8 I will remember all the community help that I have seen over this past year, the love that has been displayed in very practical ways and I will thank God that he has provided for NewStarts through various means so that we can continue to be there for our communities.
The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.
