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It's Really Mine?
Gallup, New Mexico -- Kenneth couldn't believe it. He was on a bus ride with other school-age children to buy school clothes! This Operation Blessing Back-To-School excursion would be the first time that many of these excited Navajo residents wouldn't have to pick out items which would have to fit them as well as their brother or sister!
Kenneth's dad Dale recently hurt his back, making it impossible to work. Money was tight. Kenneth's mother Nadine had to tell her growing son it would be impossible for him to get school clothes and still be able to buy basic groceries for their family of five. Disappointment turned into amazement when Kenneth was chosen to be one of over 200 children on the Navajo reservation in Arizona and New Mexico to take part in Operation Blessing 's Back-To-School program!
Riverside, California outreach center leaders Charlie and Linda Lotshaw's hand of compassion reaches out to those living in poverty on the Navajo reservation. So on August 30th of last year, they coordinated one day of shopping in Gallup. With the assistance of helpers, children exuberantly picked out athletic shoes and clothes. Then they compared their purchases with each other. Having to always share everything with siblings, one boy was so excited to actually have his own underwear!
When the shopping was done, Kenneth burst into his house with a bag of clothes, food box, gift bag and school binder! He even had a few treats to share with his brother and sister. "We thank you for your support and generosity to families in need," Nadine expressed. "This is one family who was very much in need and we had one of our prayers answered by someone we don't even know."
Linda Lotshaw shared, "For Charles and myself it was such a thrill to know that children with such great needs were receiving new clothing. With knowing the areas and the conditions they come from, it's such a blessing to see their smiles and receive their hugs."
The Lotshaw's Back-To-School 2002 plan includes trying to coordinate four events in four different areas which will meet more of the needs on the reservation.
"We would like to thank Operation Blessing for helping us achieve this," said Linda. "We appreciate the support both financially and through prayer. We are aware that without all the people who send donations to Operation Blessing, events like these would not happen."
Back-To-School 2002 events are happening all over the country this month.
Be a part of a needy student's joy.
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