Letter to Karen Kemp, Chair of the UALC Mission Committee:
​Yes it is a very challenging time for everyone but especially hard on our neighbors living in poverty.  While all of the help centers are closed, we are working to prepare for reopening. Tammy serves only people that she knows and leaves the hygiene products in a box on her driveway for them to pick up. Tammy has to be especially careful as she is an “at risk” person due to past health issues. Please pray for God’s protection for her! Tammy has a huge heart to serve while still being careful of her own health.
Yesterday I delivered over $1500 worth of hygiene and personal care items to the Columbus Dream Center which is serving their community on Saturdays with a Grocery Pick Up program. We hope to donate again in the coming weeks.
We are implementing a new inventory management system and client database which will be a huge help in keeping track of our products and clients. We are currently working on getting information into the system so that it is ready to go when we reopen.
We have created a business model and organizational structure which is in the implementation stage. We are looking for volunteer staff and helpers which are critical to our growth and success. More information and staff job descriptions  are on our website.
We are looking for a storefront and warehouse for the help center that is in Tammy’s home. We need to move it out of her house as soon as possible.
Our prayer requests are for healing of our nation, for comfort and peace for all who are mourning during this difficult time, for the health and well-being for all of our communities and our nation, and for hearts to be opened to hear God’s voice and know that Jesus is the Savior and Lord. Please pray for Tammy and all of GHHC’s volunteers for God’s protection.
Please pray that God will bring the people to serve with us as we reopen our help centers and grow.
Please pray for God’s guidance in securing a storefront and warehouse in the near future.
Thank you and the UALC Mission Committee for your dedication and support of God’s Hygiene Help Center. We are truly working diligently to help “provide dignity and hope through hygiene to those in need with the compassion of Jesus!”
God bless,
Terry

Even while the pandemic was going on, Tammy was working behind the scenes.  She developed her own recipe for creating hand sanitizer using rubbing alcohol, olive oil, 2 drops of Vitamin E to prevent dryness and sometimes even some fragrance.  The Holy Spirit has been talking to her keeping her safe.  When she needed to get more dog food, the Spirit said to put on gloves, hat and protect herself.  Then when driving down the road, she could see little lights--her angels--all around her.  Tammy said they look like when you see a flash from a camera.  But she knew they were her angels.
Let me leave you with this hope-filled promise that we can embrace as we face the coronavirus pandemic: “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV).

During this challenging time with the COVID-19 virus, areas of several southern states have been devastated by tornadoes.  What a heartbreaking time for them!
H.A.R.P. Inc, led by Mary Bates, sends volunteers and donations to help in the recovery effort of devastated areas.  She posted today that she is coordinating efforts for these southern states.
Since our help centers are closed and we have funds available, God's Hygiene wanted to help another of our UALC ministries.   Mary Bates, Executive Director for HARP, is also involved with the NALC Disaster Response Team.  God's Hygiene  donated $500 to the NALC Disaster Response team for their recovery efforts.  We hope that you will support us in our effort to reach out to help those in need in our southern states.

Update from NALC Disaster Response, April 14, 2020:  There have been over 30 fatalities in the southern states. We will be working with churches to organize and equip local volunteers to respond. Emergency relief donations are being collected now. Contact me for a pick up at 740-509-1132 or disasterresponse@thenalc.org
As many communities are asked to stay at home, my heart breaks for families that now have nowhere to go — losing loved ones and homes in a matter of minutes.
Our hearts are with those families who have lost loved ones and we are coming alongside them to help families physically start to recover from the tornadoes while reminding them that God loves them and they are not forgotten. Please join me in praying for God’s peace and comfort to cover them.
​
“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9

We are overwhelmed with gratitude and truly honored by receiving over  $2500  from the Thrivent Choice program. Two different Thrivent Financial members read in our last newsletter/blog about this simple way to donate by designating their CHOICE dollars to be given to a nonprofit like God's Hygiene.  
What a generous donation which will impact our ability to serve our local communities in need! We are looking for a storefront and warehouse to move the help center out of Tammy’s home in the near future. While our help centers are closed, we continue to look for ways to help those in need in our communities.  God bless you and thank you for supporting us in serving those in need with the compassion of Jesus.
Congregations and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations receiving Choice Dollars grant funds from Thrivent Financial will know the names and addresses of members who recommended that they receive grant funds by directing Choice Dollars to them, but for legal reasons cannot provide the amount of Choice Dollars each member directed. Choice Dollars are not part of a member’s income or tax deductible. By directing Choice Dollars, they are recommending that Thrivent Financial donate an amount of its charitable funds to one or more nonprofit organizations. All funds distributed under the Thrivent Choice program are exclusively Thrivent's funds, and are never owned by members or paid on behalf of members.  
​Thank you Thrivent and thank you to our generous supporters!

​Bob Apel has painted a new picture for God’s Hygiene Help Center. He had painted a picture 2 years ago for God’s Hygiene Help Center. He made copies and sold for them each for $100 selling about 24 pictures raising over $2000 for us.
Bob will sell his new picture in different sizes:
Small   9 x 13    $50
Medium 18 x 26 $75
Large (as pictured) $100
If interested and for more information, please contact Bob Apel

No matter what you’ve done or where you’ve been, you’ve got a place in God’s forever family ready and waiting for you. The invitation is wide open. Just believe and receive.
Are you ready? Here’s a prayer you can start with: “Dear God, I know that when I die I’m going to give an account of my life to you directly. I know I have ignored you. I confessed I have sinned against you, and I have lived by my plan, not yours. I want that to change, starting right now. I want to turn away from my sins toward you.
“Thank you for sending Jesus to die for all that I’ve done wrong so that I don’t have to pay the penalty. I know that I don’t deserve your forgiveness. I know that only your grace can save me, Lord. I could never be good enough to get into a perfect place.
“Jesus, thank you for loving me so much that you took all my guilt on yourself. You made me acceptable for heaven, and I humbly ask you to save me from the sins and the habits that are messing up my life right now. I believe in you, Jesus. And I believe that you will keep your promise to save me instantly, certainly, completely, and eternally. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”
If you prayed the prayer above, please write and tell us at godshygiene@gmail.com. We would like to give you a Bible and Our Daily Bread

“The Mighty One, God, the Lord! The Mighty One, God, the Lord! He knows!" Joshua 22:22a
 After a meeting with Pastor Dave, he was kind enough to let Diane into the Church at Mill Run  to pick up our in kind donations and invitations to the The Great Giveaway.  When Diane delivered the boxes to Tammy,  she exclaimed, "We were completely out of razors.  God knew and provided boxes of both men's and women's razors.  Thank you Lord!"  ​Our God is so good and always knows just what we need.

Eden Counseling Center sent wonderful thank you notes from their clients who attended our Glamour Time event on Valentine's Day.  At the end of the program of course Tammy opened the Help Center and served people who needed hygiene.
I truly appreciate the tools and cleaning supplies for the house that I live in.  This helps me live my life in an organized way and keep my depression under control.  Thank you very much.  Bonnie
Thanks for helping out we need the support and help build character and build balance.  So thanks.  J
Thank you for providing me with the hygiene products.  This was definitely a blessing.  We appreciate all that you do for us.  Thanks again.  Tyrene

On Tuesday a grandma who grew up as a preacher’s daughter and whose husband was an army chaplain, contacted me.  She had been given my name and number from Diane at God’s Hygiene and wanted to know if I had any resources for her daughter Claire who had fled the state from an abusive husband, and had come back home with her 9 and 5 year old daughters.  Claire was also pregnant and in the hospital because of her at risk pregnancy.  Claire wasn’t able to bring anything for her baby and needed supplies.  They had all spent over $2000 getting her home.  They had no money for baby supplies.  When I told her about the warehouse full of supplies for babies and moms in the Vista Worthington warehouse for The Great Giveaway, and told her that I would meet her the next day and that she could have anything she wanted, she started to cry.  We talked about God and how good He is and that He loves and cares for us always.   

The next day, we loaded up my empty minivan with a pack n play, high chair, bassinet, stroller, car seat, changing table,  bouncy seat, toys and clothes for the baby.  And wouldn’t you know it, there were also clothes there for the 5 year old!  Ruthie and her husband were speechless.  I was smiling a huge huge smile inside and out, because that is what God does with this ministry I have had for 9 years.  He blesses us so abundantly.   I drove the minivan to their house and unloaded it all in their garage.  They were overwhelmed and overcome and so grateful.  The text conversations have been really tender and loving and glorifying to God:

Grandma:  God has definitely brought a precious blessing.  My daughter couldn’t talk, she was crying uncontrollably with happiness.  She said to please tell you that this is a precious answer to her many hours of prayer for her little family.  She feels abundantly blessed.  See you tomorrow, God bless you.  Thank you.

Amy: I’m so grateful God has brought us together as well.  Its an awesome answer to my prayers as well that God would use the present trials of the world to draw us closer to the One who cares and is in control of it all.
Grandma:  Thank you for everything that you are doing.  You are showing God’s love to others and blessing them.  
Amy:  It’s for His Glory
Grandma:  Amen, Praise God.  You are an angel
Grandma:  Amy, I have to reach out to you to thank you for making my babygirl able to relax and rest worry free about her needs for baby James,  Gail and Heidi are so happy with the back packs, stuffed animals, and games, God has blessed us so very much.  Prayers have been answered from your faithful efforts.  Thank you.  Thank you for your precious prayers and all your efforts to help others.  You are doing His will in all your time and efforts.  I'm still trying to take in all of the blessings of today.
Amy:  Honestly, the privilege is all mine.  It was such a joy to meet you guys and to know that your trial has been made a little easier.  Thank you so much for your sweet text.  I am praying for you all.
Grandma:  Thank you my sister in Christ.
Amy:  Yes, He is my Savior and my strength. (I sent her the Nashville singers epic cell phone choir of “It is well with my soul”)
Grandma:  I was in the habit of praying every morning, evening, and whenever needed…now I seem to spend more time in prayer than anything else.  Isn’t God GREAT!!!
Amy:  He loves it when we draw nearer to Him!
Grandma:  He is all we truly need!  With God nothing is impossible
Amy:  Amen.

My daughter Clare, a journalist was with me for all of this and said “This is a story of how people right now might be just hanging on financially, but adding a big expense like this would wipe them out."  Amy Proctor. https://www.thetablegatherings.com
​

Tammy shops for most of her stock right in her Linden community.  We felt so blessed when the manager of Family Dollar on Oakland Park called her that he wanted to donate new winter coats and boots for preschoolers to God's Hygiene Help Center.  Wow!  Tammy prayed about where to take the donation.  God led her to the daycare center down the street from her home at Howey and Weber Roads--Kids R Us.  .  Look at the happy faces of these children with the surprise gifts.  
Last week an UALC Sunday school teacher donated 3 children's thermometers and alcohol wipes.  Tammy delivered them to the same daycare center.  Thank you for your thoughtfulness!  Tammy took time to visit with the owner or the Center.  She  said there were 20 pairs of boots in sizes from newborn to age 4.  It was like a gift from heaven.  Tammy replied, "That is what I have been telling everyone!  It is all from God!"  Tammy also noticed there are pregnant women with no place to go  just hanging out at the Center.  So she will get their name, number and email to share about the Great Giveaway (of baby items for young mothers) planned by The Table Gathering.

A girlfriend picked up Tammy on her birthday to take her to First Watch for breakfast and to Kohl's to shop.  When the server saw Tammy, she said, "You're that hygiene lady!  I want to pay for your breakfast!"  They received  excellent service from their server and enjoyed eating  wonderful breakfasts.  After  they left First Watch, Tammy asked her friend, "Did you leave her a good tip?"  "No, you usually leave the tip."  Tammy felt bad for the young server.  

​Two weeks later Tammy and Diane are driving past the same First Watch.  The Holy Spirit nudged Tammy to stop and give the server a tip.  The young woman had just had a baby and so appreciated the money.  Also that same morning God's Hygiene had received information about the the 3rd Annual Great Giveaway on Saturday, April 4 organized by The Table Gathering at the Columbus Dream Center.  So Tammy had Diane get  her name, email and phone number so she could be invited to the free shopping event and lunch.  Tammy was so grateful that she was faithful; she listened and obeyed God when He directed her to stop that day.

Word about God's Hygiene is spreading around to all organizations.  Since we are still a very small nonprofit with no government or corporate support, we usually have to turn away large agencies.  GHHC received this email:  
Hello! I am inquiring about how to refer a family to you. I see a mother and her young children here in our outpatient clinic, they’ve been homeless for months but are about to move into a home and are in need of some cleaning and household supplies as well as hygiene items. Can you provide me some information on how to get them connected with your organization? Sincerely, Kelsey Bakaletz, MSW, LSW
Clinical Social Worker
Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics
Nationwide Children’s Hospital, LA, Suite 3D
We checked with Terry, our new Executive Director, and she replied that the request did fit our mission.  So Kelsey and we have been emailing back and form.  The concern is that we do not have the volunteers to deliver hygiene to clients.  But Tammy will be happy to start building a Clean Start Basket for the mom and include stuffed animals for her children.
Kelsey replied, "So mom typically uses the bus system and I would ultimately cab her there if she needed. That is so wonderful of you to think of stuffed animals for the kids. Mom will really appreciate that special touch of kindness. I will let her know that we’ve discussed her referral."  
​It is all God who really made the referral.

God's Hygiene makes regular deliveries to Linden McKinley STEM Academy.  This week we printed a sign for Tiffany, the school nurse, to post so students know they can get needed hygiene items like deodorant, soap and feminine products.
Windsor Elementary STEM Academy plans to have a hygiene project involving their 5th graders.  GHHC will be  glad to be able to provide sample sizes of shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

On Friday, February 14 we held Glamour-Time which was a successful event thanks to Thrivent Financial giving us an Action Team project gift card of $250. Wonderful GHHC volunteers Lesley Tate, Maura McCormick, Melissa Gray and Priscilla McCullough arrived early  to the Douglas Community Center  to help set up.  Mary Kay consultants led by Director Cynthia Ruccia gave complimentary facials.  God's Hygiene Help Center  provided  resource sheets to get community assistance in Central Ohio.    Nearly 50 women were treated to a complimentary lunch of Chicken Salad Chick croissants, fresh veggies and fruit, and Cheryl's Cookies.  They received community resources, facials, "new" purse,  skin care products, and 2 beautiful fresh red roses.  Everyone left feeling very blessed  for a blessed Happy Valentine's Day treat.
Did you know if you are a member of Thrivent, you may donate your CHOICE dollars to a charity of your choice such as God's Hygiene.  Also you may apply for 2 Thrivent Action Team projects a year to help support our ministry.  Please email godshygiene@gmail.com

Lord, I adore you. I worship you today. Praise be to the Lord…
I confess my sins to you... Hear my cry for mercy and forgive my sins.
I will give thanks to you for you are good. Thank you, Lord, for…
Hear my supplication. Today I call on you for help…
Bible in One Year 2020 With Nicky Gumbel, Day 61

Thank you for creating this pencil on mylar artwork for the 7 Day Bible Art Challenge on display at UALC at Mill Run.  Sales of prints will benefit God's Hygiene Help Center.  Contact Terry Starr at godshygieneED@gmail.com to order your desired size of  print.

Praise God!  Terry Starr has accepted the position to be God's Hygiene Executive Director!  She has not only the heart, but extensive administrative skills, and had the vision to realize that GHHC needs a business plan as well as someone as "Driver of the Bus" as God has directed  this ministry to keep growing.  Terry encouraged all the board members to set goals for our nonprofit which are specific, manageable, tangible and time bound.  Most important is to keep searching for a store front in the north Linden community, so the Help Center is no longer located in Tammy's home.  Congratulations and thank you Terry for being willing to step up to lead God's Hygiene in 2020.  If you have ideas to share you can reach Terry at godshygieneED@gmail.com .

Ecclesiastes 11:4, “If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done” (TLB).

Our hearts went out to Tammy's brother Ross and his wife Julia on Christmas night.  They came home from dinner to find their house on fire.  Evidently it started in the stove whether an old 22 year old stove or a burner.  Thankfully they are covered by homeowners' insurance.  However, Ross was overwhelmed with scammers.  A  restoration team took him for $16,000 to freshen all his clothes and televisions. They left them with no change of clothes.  It was devastating.   They left them with nothing.  Afterwards he realized he could have bought all new clothes and more for $10,000.  

God's Hygiene helped them by giving them 2 towel sets, pajamas, underwear, socks, and more.  It was such a comfort to Julia just to have some basic hygiene items.  Tammy cooked dinner for them for several days.  Julia posted on Facebook: "I should have posted this days ago but we have been overwhelmed with investigators and ambulance chasers and the aftermath of the fire. Thank You Tammy Jewell and Gods Hygiene Help Center. Something as simple as being clean and in fresh jammies was definitely a Godsend."

“Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them” (Proverbs 3:27 NLT).

January 3  morning Tammy had an experience with Jesus.  He said you need to exercise your spirit the same way you exercise your body.  It will give you much joy to become personal and intimate with Jesus.  It will open all doors that need to be opened.  Jesus will command those doors to be open and nothing will shut the doors on us.  Tammy will be protected from any harm.  To begin with, be quiet and be with me 3 times a week then every day.  I am happiness, peace, joy and your rush.
​
​Whetstone Gardens and Care Center is where advisor Harley Bratton spent his last few months.   We recently picked up his portable refrigerator and walker; Ross is so grateful to use this refrigerator while rebuilding his home.   Whetstone's  housing supervisor has given GHHC 16 twin blankets and bedspreads.  We were able to give 2 to a foster parent at IGA for her foster children and 10 to the new Huckleberry House on 11th Avenue. 

The Holy Spirit led Tammy to IGA, not to grocery shop, but to reach out to the deli workers for the their needs in her community.  When Tammy walked into the store, she saw a little woman who looked to be about 90 years old.  She was leaning on her shopping cart afraid to let go and her elderly husband could not hold her up.  Tammy immediately thought about the shiny red walker which had belonged to Harley and went out to retrieve it from "Mercy."  The woman cried when she saw it because she had been praying for help to get around.  Praise that Tammy does hear from the Spirit, listens and obeys.

​Lamentations 3:22-24. The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.”

Last month we worked a lot with The Bed Brigade and Immaculate Conception.  We were able to refer several families to have beds built and delivered with all the linens.  They also received boxes of food and prayer when they had nothing.  Through all of this we know that people will see Jesus' love.

In photo on the left, one of our top officers in the Linden community.  Thank you Officer Alesia Zacher for all that you do to go above and beyond to help the residents.  Sometimes Tammy even rides with the officer  for  wellness checks to senior citizens and others in need.

One night Ann called about a young woman with 5 kids who had been homeless.  This 25 year old has moved into a place at Mt. Vernon Plaza.  She hoped she could get a Clean Start Basket.  God's Hygiene will but we cannot afford to give her 5 sets of new towels.  
​
​Miss My's Hair & NaIl Beauty Salon, 1465 East Livingston Avenue, hosted their 1st Community Giveaway on January 26.  They heard about the good work which God's Hygiene Help Center does.  So they came to Tammy's front door to ask for donations.  Our supporters are so generous giving us lots of sample sizes of shampoo, lotion and more.  GHHC was able to give Miss My a huge bag of those items so they could pack their own Blessing Bags to give out.

A beautiful and blessed "Day of Beauty" on a Sunday for 25 lovely lady survivors of human trafficking.  They are called Butterflies.  The Wild Honeybee Boutique in Worthington had 5 stylists, a makeup artist, massage therapist, photogragher and a group of fabulous friends who helped and donated a delicious lunch spread, coffee, drink station and all kinds of desserts.  They loved on these ladies and let them know how worthy and beautiful they are and how proud we are for all of them graduating from CATCH Court.  
When we heard about the event, Tammy had to personally pack 25 Blessing Bags of hygiene for them.
​Congratulations to these Butterflies! 

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.  Hebrews 13:16 NIV

When Tammy and Crystal held a resource table at Windsor STEM Academy for Parent Teacher Conferences, they were approached by the principal, counselor and teachers.  "We have a number of special needs children who need coats."  Tammy replied, "God's Hygiene only provides hats, gloves, scarves and socks."  Then Crystal interrupted, "Excuse me, I have the resources to get coats from the Free Store. How many do you need?"  The principal said, "As many as possible but at least 15.   We actually have 3 homeless families living in their cars."  So they offered them resources for housing, hygiene plus blankets, hats and gloves.  On December  9 Crystal and Tammy will be delivering 20 hats and gloves along with 15 warm coats.

The Columbus Police came and picked up more donated coats, 10 pairs of socks, scarves with gloves attached and gave them out to the homeless on the streets. Every week our officer gives out about 6 coats--some are for adults, other ones for children.  God knows what we need and our supporters donate them at the right time. This officer is going and beyond her job--doing wellness checks, online shopping for underprivileged kids in neighborhood, and making sure families have some basic needs met.   One family has 4 beds in one room and won't let us in to see their poor living condition.
​

Thank you for sharing your blessings!  You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.  2 Corinthians 9:11 NIV
​
Tammy was so happy when we saw on the news that a woman was opening a free Community Blessing Store in a small Linden market at the Come & Go Center, 884 Oakland Park.  Diane, Tammy and 2 of her volunteers visited that Monday to congratulate Eliza and donate Harley's clothes to her.  The free store is open Mondays and Wednesdays 12 - 3 pm.  But since another business also uses the same space, Eliza and her husband have to take all the donations back home each time.  
God's Hygiene has been searching for a warehouse in the Linden community.  Even though Tammy has been friends with the store owner for years, it would not work out for God's Hygiene.  (1) We could not give away. hygiene if the store is selling the same items. (2) There is no place to lock up our donated  products.  

Paul Sparks of Embark program, had just returned from a 10 day adventure in Israel.  But he made time to pick up this huge Clean Start Basket for a newly released man, pictured on the right.  God's Hygiene is glad to help people given a 2nd chance.
Robin Lorms called with a special request.  He was helping a mother with 3 children who lives in Circleville.  Even though Tammy had vertigo, she packed a basket for her including stuffed animals for the kids, pots and pans, dishes, silverware and blankets.  The Mom cried when she saw all the gifts.  We are glad to work together with Embark/Kindway be the hands and feet of Jesus.
The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.  Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.  Psalm 9:9-10  (NIV)

This work had been done with the help of our God. Nehemiah 6:16

Thank you for listening when you get a nudge from God to donate something.  A church member asked, "Does Tammy need a Christmas tree?"  I replied, "She has one.  But I'm sure she knows of a family who does need it."  Sure enough.  A family which Officer Alesia and Tammy had helped just a week before was chosen.  When Freddie delivered the tree that week, they cried.  "My kids kept asking for a Christmas tree. I told my kids that I didn't have any money to get a Christmas tree this year.  It's a miracle.  Here you are with a tree for us!  Thank you.
Another family of 8 had absolutely nothing.  God's Hygiene was able to help with basic hygiene items, blankets, and towels.  But they had no food.  Thanks to ICC, we could ask them to deliver an emergency food box.  When they did, they saw no furniture in the home.  ICC has the resources to request furniture for them.  So glad we can work together with other community resources to provide help to those in need.

Thank you to Karen Espe who applied for a Thrivent Action Team project plus recruited 25 families to donate hygiene items.  With the $250 grant from Thrivent and  other donations she was able to collect  7 clothes baskets worth of items.  Thank you so much!  
If you are a Thrivent member, are you aware that you can donate your CHOICE Dollars to God's Hygiene Help Center at no cost to you plus you can apply for two Thrivent Action Team projects a year.  That is how God's Hygiene first started receiving other donations.  Questions?  Contact Diane at godshygiene@gmail.com or 614-329-4661.

Thank you to UALC for donating the Bibles which were previously in the Sanctuary.  On December 22, a volunteer named Mrs. Chambers picked up the remaining 100 Bibles.  Pastor Betty of Oakland Park Apartments is planning to wrap them up and give to neighbor kids for Christmas. What a great idea!   Betty used to pastor a church in her previous city until God told her to move to Columbus.  We feel blessed that we get to be a small part of blessing others.


​Philippians 4:6 | “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

This month we have been focusing on Project Warm.  We will continue to collect gently used coats for all ages, socks, hats, gloves, scarves and blankets.  Thank you to the creative people who have donated with love hand crocheted beautiful scarves, hats and gloves.  Your gift makes a child feel so special and warm!

We are in awe whenever Tammy shares with us.  "God is talking to me.  I sometimes think I am not enough, but GOD Himself told me. 'I have you where I want you.  Stay on the path my child!!.  Stay close with me and listen. I will lead you and I will send earth angels.  I am the Great I AM!" 

The Barack Community Center held their Thanksgiving event on November 21.  Over 400 people attended and were fed a turkey dinner.  Ann Glover, Barack Help Center coordinator, set out much needed donations of hats, scarves, and skin care products.  In one minute they were all gone.  These people must really be in need.
God's Hygiene helps support the Douglas Community Center Applications for Purpose, Pride and Success (APPS) program.  What is APPS? The mission of the APPS program is to reduce crime and violence by increasing protective factors in the lives of Columbus youth and young adults (ages 14-23) through proven prevention and intervention strategies. The initiative’s prevention strategies include offering safe and constructive alternatives to violence while youth development professionals provide mentorship through enrichment activities at four community recreation centers. "The diligent mentors are able to assess individual and family needs while being an ongoing advocate to insure that a young person and their family are linked to services that meet immediate needs while providing long term support services for future goal attainment, which ultimately produces productive contributing members of society.
Thank you to volunteer Crystal Anderson who has reorganized the shelves of stock at both Douglas and Barack Centers to make it easier to inventory every week what stock has been given out and what is needed.
God's Hygiene also provides items for the W. H. Adams Community Center.  Mario Dovell, Adams Manager, comes himself to the Douglas Center to get need hygiene items for teenagers and seniors in need.  

Did you know that our Columbus police officers drive around their community doing wellness checks on seniors?  We work with a wonderful liaison officer in the Linden area and provide adult diapers and other hygiene products to the Substation on 11th Avenue.  
​We heard about a family in an emergency and great need.  A mother of three is in intensive care.  The father shot the mother in the chest and she is not expected to survive.  There are two girls and a boy who will not have a home, a family and in need of everything.  All their belongings were destroyed  and since no relatives, they have been placed in foster care.  God's Hygiene was able to give them backpacks, their own blankets, hats, gloves, socks, underwear, Purse of Love,  basic hygiene and of course, prayers.
Lola is a 95 year old woman who lives alone in a place off Cleveland Avenue.  When they visited, her toes were sticking out of her socks.  Senior Options had not been out to give her a bath.  God's Hygiene was able to provide her with adult diapers, 3 sweaters, socks and much needed food.
The officer pulled up on a 10 year old girl.  She asked about her grades and found out her family is living in a one room apartment with wall to wall beds.  They received blankets, hats, gloves and put on a special Christmas list.
They drove down Hudson and saw a working girl--she needs to buy formula for her baby so was not arrested.  We gave her a bag pf hygiene, gloves, hat and scarf to keep warm.  
We also gave our officer extra blankets, hats and scarves to give soothers in the community.

On November 7 three kids received coats which were donated to God's Hygiene.  A Purse of Love was given to a working girl on Cleveland Avenue.  Two Blessing Bags were handed out at Planet Fitness on Indianola where Tammy works out.  Mr. and Mrs. Barnes were featured in a video how God's Hygiene has made a difference in their lives the past four years.  They were able to take home the extra food prepared for our lunch that day.   So they dropped off a thank you card to Tammy.  She opened the envelope and exclaimed "Oh no!  There is a bed bug inside!"  Tammy smashed it right away, but fearful that clients coming to  her Howey Road help center for products could unknowingly infest her home.  Tammy cannot afford to have her own home infested with the bugs.  Working with those without basic hygiene can be so sad.  But God lifts them up.  We will contact all our resources to see if we can get them help to treat the bedbugs in their house.  On Sunday, November 24 when the video was shown at Upper Arlington Lutheran Church, Mrs. Barnes was in OSU Hospital with a blood infection.  We do not know if that is a result of the bugs.

Tammy and volunteer Crystal Anderson have been attending Alpha on Monday evenings at UALC at Mill Run.  They absolutely love it and are getting a lot of their questions answered.  They plan to encourage everyone to register for the new January 2020 session.  Any questions, see Alan Starr.

Paul wrote, “Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand” (Philippians 4:6-7 NLT).

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
⁠—2 Corinthians 1:3-4
​The police were called to a home on Pontiac to evict a family for nonpayment of rent. A grandmother answered the door--there was no furniture, no utilities, and no food.  Next to the grandmother was her severely disabled teenage granddaughter drinking from a baby bottle.  Our officer liaison immediately contacted Tammy to get them some help.  God's Hygiene reached out to our advisor Jim at Immaculate Conception for a box of food.  Tammy delivered needed hygiene and blankets.  We wish this story had a happy ending but several weeks later she called us to pick up the donated items because they really had to leave.

God's Hygiene Help Center is honored that we are one of three missions chosen by UALC to create a video about how our ministry has made a difference in the life of a client.  That was easy for Tammy--she chose her senior client  Mrs. Diane Barnes and her family.  Grace and Peace Productions put everyone at ease when they came to Tammy's home and interviewed Mrs. Barnes, Kevin who helps Mrs. Barnes, and Tammy.  Since meeting Tammy 4 1/2 years ago, Mrs. Barnes has lost 80 pounds, is able to walk, has made about 500 yarn bracelets to give to the kids at events, and shares assistance resources  with Tammy.

 Helping Hands Health and Wellness Center is a community, faith based, free medical clinic that serves uninsured and underinsured adults whose income is below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.​TB Skin Testing Program: Tuesdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm​​ Free Care Program:Thursdays, doors open at 2:00 pm​​ During our Free Care Program, we offer free physician care and free social services care.  We also offer work and/or school physicals during the Free Care Program. Bring the work and/or school physical form that needs to be completed.  Our Free Care Program is walk-in only and our doors open at 2:00 pm to begin sign-ins. We do not have scheduled appointments. Our services are offered on a “first come first served” basis. We accept patients until we reach our capacity. It is recommended that patients arrive when the doors first open.  There is no cost to be seen during the Free Care Program.  We do not serve individuals under age 18.​  OUR LOCATION:  Helping Hands Health and Wellness Center, 5100 Karl Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229.  God's Hygiene participated in the 11th annual Bowl to Help fundraiser for this Free Clinic.  We wanted to support both our advisor, Dr. Nancy Gatto Henceforth and the clinic where we are now referring clients.

Afraid and lost, a 21 year old mother came to Tammy's home.  She had 3 young kids and a black eye.  Her boyfriend or babies' daddy is on drugs.  "He beats me and beats the kids.  I don't know where to go.  We have a small dog, too."  Tammy told her all about Choices, how she can keep her kids safe and together with her.  Pets are also now allowed.  God is so good.  Tammy gave her ore resources and hygiene.  She cried and thanked Tammy.  But she couldn't  let her leave without first string about God.  They hugged and Tammy told her about God and how He loves her and the kids.  Just know that GOD is real!  And He is your Father!
There are homeless people on Howey Road, Tammy's street!  Two men and two young women are on drugs.  God's Hygiene gave them a bag of dry food, 2 pillows, 2 sheets, blanket, 4 sets of gloves, toothpaste, toothbrushes and a rain coat big enough for two people.  Great timing and God's mercy because the next day it rained hard all day!
This month we helped 3 senior families with food.  To the schools we delivered 200 deodorants, 250 pads and 50 tampons.
A young woman we have known reached out to Tammy for help 2 days before she is to be evict4ed.   Each day 75 families are evicted in Columbus !  Tammy talked to her on the phone and shared resources--go to the welfare office, contact IMPACT, call Job and Family Services, tell the judge in court about the poor conditions in your one room apartment--the bed bugs, roaches, and holes.  Tammy can only do so much as one person.  People need to learn how to use the resources available.

Tammy saw an old friend who had just been released from federal prison.  His wife of 31 years had left him and pregnant with someone else's baby.  His 18 children (from 5 different mothers) hated him.  He had not met his grandchildren.  He felt alone and of no use. He prepared to kill himself.  
In prison he got clean and found God.   He wasn't going to go back to drugs, but he did not know where to go.  As a former member of the Short North Posse, he didn't know anyone in the outside world who knew God. Tammy and the man talked.   Then he heard and saw how Tammy had turned her life around and was helping the community.  She recruited him to help God's Hygiene and to take God back into his life.  Now he knows he is not alone, is loved, and still useful.  The man is so excited that he is considering attending both Alpha and church this week.  Praise God! 

This month we built baskets for 3 different organizations.  Tammy and Julia Jewell built 3 baskets for Suicide Prevention for an American Legion event.  Thank you to Kathryn Farrar and her grandchildren, who are God's youngest Hygiene Helpers! for creating four baskets  for Kindway/Embark.  We participated in our first fundraiser on September 12 and we donated baskets for the Thrivent Mystery Dinner/Silent Auction.  Tammy packed an OSU Tailgate Basket which included breakfast at Denny's, Late Night Slice pizza, Noodles, OSU ice bucket, and so much more.  Thank you to Board Member Terry Starr for creating a second "Personal Comfort" basket to donate to the Thrivent Silent Auction.  Moo Moo Car Wash donated a third basket on our behalf which received the most bids!
Thank you to our team of supporters and donors who attended and bid on the Silent Auction items.  It was such a fun evening.  Photos have been posted on our Facebook page.
A basket was also given to a woman and her 17 year old son who are starting over.  With God's love and donations we have received, we could help her with blankets, dishes, pan, and towels.    
​Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap, if we do not give in. Galatians 6:9 Amplified Bible (AMP) 

Terry Starr saw this message:  "Hi UA Friends, I recently became aware of a young Columbus mother who has faced some mighty struggles, and could really use our help. Her name is Biancamya Griffin, and I’ll try to give you a quick synopsis of her story. Bianca moved here from Flint, MI six years ago. She has three young children. On February 16, 2019, Bianca’s (now ex-boyfriend) was watching her youngest, KenKen, who is 4. It is hard to even write this, but the man held this sweet little boy (who has learning delays) down in a bathtub of scalding water. He was critically injured. KenKen has had 6-7 surgeries already and is facing at least two more. The monster who did this is in custody awaiting trial. 
I first became aware of her story as it was told by a wonderful Columbus police officer, who spends his time in some of our city’s worst neighborhoods connecting with kids, while sometimes putting out the call for help. So, Bianca has just moved from the south end to the Milo Grogan neighborhood. Ken was afraid to ever go into the bathroom (at the old house)for obvious reasons, and the area was riddled with crime and drugs. Bianca works hard as a contract employee for Southwest Airlines (they bought Ken’s wheelchair!), but she could really use some help furnishing the new place. I was there this morning, and it is truly a humble home, yet Bianca is thrilled. I have taken care of new kitchen items, but there is more she can use. The living room needs furniture, and she needs a dining table. There is room in the kitchen for a tiny dinette set too. She has beds, but could use dressers or even Rubbermaid type drawer units. While the apt is far from being remodeled, she is living there. Her landlord will adjust her rent if any sweat equity helps complete a project-there is a lot of painting to be done.
If you have it in your heart to help this young family, please let me know. I’m going to post screenshots of her FB page dedicated to her son, and that of Officer Johnson-since this is a closed group. Thank you very much for reading and offering any assistance!”

They have had a lot of responses with help for furniture and other household items. She needs help with hygiene products. Can we please help?
​Of course Tammy said YES and started packing.  When the young mother said she didn't even have a fork, God's Hygiene gave her dishes, cereal bowls, silverware and a new skillet.  When Biancamya came to pick up the basket plus items, she just cried and was so appreciative.  

​“It is God himself who has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago he planned that we should spend these lives in helping others” (Ephesians 2:10 TLB).

God's Hygiene Help Center is so excited and appreciative that we  will be involved with our first fundraiser!

The Thrivent Community- Central Ohio is hosting a Night of Giving and Silent Auction.  Join us for an elegant dinner while participating in a live mystery theatrical event called Killigan's Island.  The proceeds from this event and auction will benefit four local non-profit organizations doing incredible things in our community: the Adaptive Sports Connection, Nellie's Champions for Kids (NC4K), God's Hygiene Help Center and Pedal with Pete.  Each of these organizations is in great need of volunteers and funds to continue their mission in Central Ohio.  The purpose of this evening is to allow our members to interact directly with these groups; learn firsthand who they serve and how; the impact each organization has on our community and of course to raise much needed funds.  
We hope you will come - to be generous with your time, talents and treasures and leave having had a very unique and entertaining evening!  Seating is limited and reservations are required so save your spot as soon as possible!  The cost of this event is $20 per person, due at registration.
To register use the Register Now link below. 
Please RSVP by September 5, 2019.
Dates, Times & Locations
Thursday,  September 12, 2019
06:00 p.m. - 09:00 p.m .Ohio State University Fawcett Center
2400 Olentangy River Road
Columbus, OH 43210. Join Us! REGISTER NOW - click here to go directly to registration page on Eventbrite.
DONATIONS NEEDED: As well as monetary donations we are seeking donations of items or services to be offered in our Silent Auction.  If you or your business are interested in making a direct donation of funds, goods or services please contact the event coordinator Tonya Rees, at 937-642-6825 or tonya.rees@thrivent.com, for more details.  (All donations will receive a receipt.)

For more INFORMATION ON OUR EVENT PARTNERS, click links below!
Adaptive Sports Connection http://adaptivesportsconnection.org
NC4K (Nellie's Champions for Kids https://www.nc4k.org
God's Hygiene Help Center https://www.godshygiene.org
Pedal with Pete http://www.pedal-with-pete.org

Entertainment provided by Floriano Productions
Hosts: Dave Ritter, Jeff Ritter, Douglas Booth, Adam Ritter and Hans Corban
Thrivent Community-Central Ohio