“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead, American Cultural Anthropologist
Regardless of age, you’re never too young to be the catalyst for the change you want to see in the world. If you are passionate about an idea, share it, and turn it into a reality. When nineteen-year-old Eagle Scout and college student, Nick Graham, of New Kensington, PA saw a need among homeless veterans in his community, he went to work to make an impact.
Graham, now a student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, noticed that many veterans who had come back from the war ended up on the streets, with no homes waiting for them upon their return to the States. He decided to assemble care kits for homeless veterans who are in desperate need of basic hygiene products that most people take for granted on a daily basis. Each carefully thought-out package contained: a toothbrush, toothpaste, facial tissues, body wipes, a hat, gloves, socks, hand warmers, deodorant, a reusable water bottle, a can opener, and a McDonald’s gift card.
“It’s not a long-term thing like building a bench in a park, but I was able to give back to veterans with items that can help them,” Graham said of his endeavor. To pay for the care package items, Graham and his scout troop raised the money themselves by standing outside of a store and asking for donations. Most people were more than happy to donate to such a worthy cause, and within two days, the troop had raised almost $1,300.
Upon receiving the care kits, the veterans were appreciative as well as surprised at the thoughtfulness of someone so young. Nick’s mom, Tracie Graham, said: “He realized this isn’t just a project; it’s a pretty good thing.”
To read more about Graham’s story, click here.
We, at Sheltering Grace, are passionate about helping homeless mothers and babies end the devastating cycle of homelessness. Please contact us at 678-337-7858 to learn how you can help. Your one act of kindness can make all the difference to mothers and babies in need.
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Sheltering Grace Ministry, Ltd. is a 501(c)3 Ltd. non-profit ministry. We resolve the initial crisis of homelessness by providing mothers with a safe place to live during pregnancy. We also equip them with the tools they need to improve decision-making, enhance employment options, and increase family income to act responsibly as the head of their household. All of our services develop their self-reliance to progress to permanent independent living. Please join us in renewing and rebuilding the lives of these brave women – #Be1of5000.
