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“I just wanted to let God’s love show through.” Donating to make a difference

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dsc03939Kelli Stewart of Covington, Louisiana is a 36 year old mother of three year old triplets and now a three month old. Add to that, she’s the owner of Lullaby Set Children’s clothing, and you get the idea that her life is pretty hectic.

Like many across Louisiana, Stewart was devastated by the images that came across her television screen and phone following 30 inches of rainfall two weeks ago. Her first thought was about all the families out there who were impacted…families like hers. What must they be thinking? How can I help them?

“I was looking to help, to be a blessing, and I love the mission of The Salvation Army,” said Stewart.

So, Stewart will donate hundreds of pieces of brand new children’s clothing from her store for ages newborn to six years old. The clothes still have the tags on them.

“I just wanted to let God’s love show through. Maybe they will realize, ‘wow, some stranger did this for me’, and pass it on to someone else,” said Stewart.

Plus, the fact she’s the mother to four young daughters, Stewart wants them to grow up knowing they need to give back and be a blessing. She also realizes her role in influencing her generation and younger generations currently building careers and families.

“Our parents raised us right, it’s time we show it,” said Stewart. “It’s our job to make a difference and give back. God’s put us on earth to help other people, more can be done.”

How an alcoholic goes from nothingness to an inspiration

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Working in the warehouse of a Salvation Army Family store is anything but glamorous. Working in the warehouse of the Family Store in Lafayette, Louisiana there’s never a dull moment. Fay Portier is the Lafayette Corps warehouse manager.

“Sometimes it’s hectic, but you gotta keep going,” said PortierDSC09319

This week’s highlight is what looks to be an Olympic gold medal…or at least a replica.

With the help of Corps Officers, Majors Mel and Esther James, Portier stopped long enough to share his personal story with me. Portier is always on the go. He starts his pick up route at 7am and returns to the store by ten to begin sorting donations so they can be sold in the front of the store. Portier knows staying busy is better than where he’s been.

Portier will celebrate four years sober November eleventh.DSC09357

“I finally got tired of waking up drunk,” said Portier.

Working his way through The Salvation Army’s adult rehabilitation program, Portier first started out as a bell ringer, then served as the driver going around Lafayette picking up donated items. A year later, his current position came open.

Portier is now a corps soldier and Sunday school teacher, sharing the Word and passing on his experiences to men who need his guidance. It’s a role he never thought he’d be in.

“I would have never thought that, but I just tell them to trust in God, and The Salvation Army. They’ll help you get on your feet, get on track,” said Portier.

Clothes, shoes and other goods are dropped off at The Salvation Army when they’re not wanted anymore. Through our stores, they become repurposed and needed again by someone else.

Fay Portier came to The Salvation Army not knowing if his life would ever be of use to anyone. The Lord has given him a new purpose, and he is definitely needed. He’s needed to provide a positive influence in the lives of the many people he comes in contact with each week.