SERVING OUR COMMUNITY WITH WHAT THEY NEED
January, 2021 | Vol.1 | Week 1
Last year at this time, I was writing to you about 2020 with hope and anticipation. I was talking about 20/20 vision. And a part of me just wants to laugh. But last year, with NO IDEA what lay ahead in 2020, I wrote this:
“When someone has a vision, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they can see into the future. But it can mean that they can see their way ahead clearly. The beauty of serving Christ is that even when we cannot see clearly, we know that He can and that He will direct us. The closer we walk with Him, the clearer our path becomes.”
This statement remains true. In fact, it feels truer than it did a year ago. In the midst of chaos and suffering this year, though it felt that the regulations and plans were ever-changing, the Father remained faithful to us and gave us direction and wisdom beyond our experience.
Last year I shared our values with you:·
The ability to share the love of Christ with clients·
Faithful stewardship·
The safety and security of our clients·
Hospitality
When March hit, it felt as though our values were under direct attack from the Enemy. Hospitality? Not when our beautiful living room-type lobby is closed! Ability to share the love of Christ with clients? Did I even remember to offer to pray with that client that drove and left quickly? For a brief while, we were discouraged. But the values that the Lord laid on our hearts before we ever knew what was going to come were exactly the values we needed in our hearts as we faced decision-making for 2020. And the Father knew this. Our deep desire to steward this ministry faithfully has not changed. We want to be faithful to the Lord, His name, and reputation. We also very much care for the safety and security of our clients. So, though it was initially a bummer, it was a no-brainer to close the lobby, offer curbside, porch delivery, and prayer via phone or through car windows. And we’re getting the hang of it! We can say with confidence that, pandemic or no, we were able to hold to our values. And the Father provided for this ministry in overwhelming ways. Cash and diapers have been steadily coming in. The inability to have an auction has not hampered our ability to provide for the needs of our community. If you were one of the many who brought us some blessing, large or small, thank you for listening to the Lord.2020 has taught us that we know nothing of what the future holds, but we can trust the One who does and listen intently to Him. If He chooses not to calm the storms, He can help us navigate the roughest seas. Either way, we’re in Excellent Hands. Happy 2021! Glenda Dunaway, Executive Director & the Bambinos Board of Directors
Also, we know that Cyber Monday is kinda laughable this year. Because, let's face it. We've all been clicking that Amazon button a LOT being stuck at home. HAHA! This is just a friendly reminder that if you shop through Smile.Amazon.com and select Bambinos, OR as the non-profit, Amazon will donate 0.5% of your purchase to us. No cost to you!
HELP SUPPORT BAMBINOS We are always in need of people who can pledge to send us a monthly gift that we can put toward our expenses. We call these wonderful people "Bambinos Builders." A pledge as little as $5 per month can still make a big difference.
OUR MISSION Bambinos, Oregon is a non-profit ministry that aims to reduce stress in the homes of Polk County, Oregon families by providing essential supplies, extra-curricular scholarships, and emotional support. As we demonstrate the love of Christ our hope is to impact families in such a way that their lives are transformed, contributing to a healthier community.