People are everywhere. Happy… sad… purposeful… lonely… angry… bitter… hungry… dejected… rejected… wealthy(but not knowing their true need)… empty… confused…

But, they all have one thing in common: all have needs.

 

We, at our organization, have seen the needs and asked: What can we do? How can we really make a difference? Where do people go who are in need but have little money? They might, but may not necessarily go to a church right off. The answer, for us, seems to be in the form of a fixed place right in the midst of their community. A place where they will come to find they will always find acceptance, understanding, and items they need.

A thrift store! But, MUCH more than a thrift store! One that keeps its prices low regardless of the changing economy. One that is less concerned about making money, and more about ministry. A place that not only offers items such as low priced furniture, clothing and dishes and a free food pantry, but also God’s love, healing from bruises the world gives, acceptance and eternal salvation. A place that puts ministry first. Hence… THE HEM Thrift Store!

 

THE HEM THRIFT STORE: a place where people get physical and emotional needs met and come in contact with Jesus.

Is a homeless man or woman in need of a t-shirt or a pair of shoes?  ✓ Check.

Does a shivering individual need a coat and hat in the dead of winter?  ✓ Check.

Does a man, wanting to provide for his family, have a job opportunity, but no appropriate clothing for the upcoming interview?  ✓ Check.

Are they hungry? Depressed? Victim of abuse?  ✓ Check.

Did a family just experience a house fire and need items to start over?  ✓ Check. 

Is a woman in need of a hug, love, acceptance, a listener and to know someone cares?  ✓ Check.

We are working on a growing network of other good solid local organizations to which we can point people as well. Organizations which are prepared to love and help people in ways we are not.

 

ABOUT THE NAME—THE HEM

In Bible times there was a woman with needs, physical and emotional. All her money had been spent going to doctors but she still was not helped. Until one day… after 12 years of suffering she came in contact with Jesus and the hem of His robe! In that life-changing moment she was healed! Her physical and emotional needs were both met and she went away whole, never to be the same again! (Mark 5:25-34)

We are not God and we cannot change people. Only God can do that. But, we want to be THE HEM right in the midst of a hurting society. A sacred place where individuals come and experience the true love of God. For them. A place where people are not just told, but also shown, perhaps for the first time, that their lives have TRUE VALUE and there is a God who created them, truly loves and cherishes them. 

THE HEM: a simple and loving place, run by people with big hearts from different backgrounds and church denominations, all shining the light of Christ. Once we get startup funds, a few employees and needed volunteers we believe God will show us the location. As people’s lives are touched and helped one by one, our hope is that over time there will be tens and thousands of people who can tell of how they came in contact with God and were made whole from that moment on!

If you are interested in lending a hand in any way or have any questions, feel free to contact us. We’d love to hear from you!