Christ-like Service Provided 

We are so grateful for everyone who has been involved in this project. This year we saw an incredible coming together of community to build bridges, and strengthen our community. The stats above, while impressive, are only part of the story. Each piece of clothing, the time given in service, the conversations of faith, hope, and support are all small miracles that will have a impact on those involved. 

Community Partners 

There is no effective clothing distribution without the help our our community partners. This year we were able to work with 24 organizations to distribute 4500 vouchers throughout the Lansing area. We saw the addition of Michigan State University Food Bank, Highfields Inc, and the Community of Christ Church. Each partner helps spread the word to those who are in need, making sure to the clothing we receive and gather goes to those who will most benefit. 

The Lansing School District played a significant role again this year. Not only did they collect donations, they were able to distribute over half of the vouchers to students and families. They also provided over 320 resource bags. e reusable resource bags include brouchers with community resources, coloring books, fidgets, and other supplies. 

Donations and Clothing Distributed

During the 2 days of the Clothing Distribution, 1,497 patrons attended, and shopped for a total of 2,832 individuals. 

We had over 24,000 pounds of clothing to distribute, which include winter coats, boots, snowpants, hats, gloves, blankets, quilts, and clothing for all ages. In addition to the semi-truck provided from Salt Lake City, we collected 8 large watermelon boxes full of clothes in the Lansing Stake and local partners including the Lansing School District, GAPS Outreach, and Alph Omicron PI of Michigan State University. 

Volunteers 

And without you, we can not organize, sort, or distribution this massive amount of clothing. Across 5 days, we had 331 voluteers giving over 1015 hours of service. This sacrifice of time to sorting, organizing, restocking, assisting patrons, and providing translation does not go with out notice. We are so grateful for to all who came and helped to serve.

We saw patrons who spoke a wide variety of languages, including Spanish, French, Swahili, Mandarin, and Dari. 

Our efforts to lift together with our community was also magnified this year seeing 21 volunteers from Lansing School District, and the Salvation Army. 

"Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes" 

Even though the total number of people provide for this year was up over last year, we did have some clothing left. This miracle of having enough for everyone and more, means that we were able to provide these additional clothing, coats, and booths to community partners who will continue the efforts of outreach and distribution to those in need. 

We're grateful to Catholic Charities of Ingham, Eaton, & Clinton County, Okemos Community Church, Community of Christ Church, Helping Hands Food Pantry, Lansing School District, and others.

Captain Michelle Johnson, Corps Office for The Savlvation Army in Lansing, said this about the efforts, "The clothing distribution provided by your Church helps provide dignity to those who may not be able to afford coats, warm boots, and other clothing needs. Thank you so much for making such a significant impact to those needing a helping hand. God Bless you."

Thank you to all who have participated. In doing so we are following the divine instructions from our Savior in Matthew 25:34 - 40, that we are to feed the hungry, to cloth the naked, and to visit the sick. And when we have done so, the Savor said, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." 

With love and appreciation, 

The Lansing Michigan Stake Presidency