Helping, Reaching Out.



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When I created Shower of Hope Oklahoma, my initial endeavor was to help the Hamil Family.  Having two little boys of my own, their tragedy really hit close to home with me and I've always been passionate about helping children.  From serving in the youth ministry at my local church, to working in the nurseries there, I've always loved working with children.  Jesus esteems children and values them greatly.  In Matthew 19:14, Jesus says, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."  So, whenever an opportunity arises to help a child or children in need, my heart is instantly compelled to help and do something.  During times like these, Matthew 25:40 comes to mind... "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these, you did for me." 

So, as many of you know, Oklahoma endured severe weather this past weekend.  Strong storms, high winds, hail and tornadoes hit many parts of the state.  Jamai Lyda, a woman that I came to know through the Shower of Hope Oklahoma Facebook page, is helping a young family in need right now.  A young mother who's 8-month pregnant with a baby boy due in May was at home with her 3-year old daughter when a tornado hit the town of Woodward, Oklahoma.  Breanna Parada's home was destroyed by the tornado.  Thankfully, this young mother and her family were unharmed, but lost everything in the storm.  89 homes in Woodward were destroyed along with 13 businesses.  When I heard about this young mother, I instantly wanted to send a care package for her family.  My mom endured a housefire several years ago and any natural disaster is a traumatic experience, so I understand wholeheartedly what this family is enduring. 

I plan on sending a care package to the Parada Family for their soon-to-be baby from Shower of Hope Oklahoma.  My desire is for this care package to be a blessing and an encouragement to them during this difficult time of re-building and starting over.  If you would like to send a care package for the Parada Family, you can send it to:

Covenant Life Christian Church
Re: Parada Family
501 S. Cleveland Street
Enid, Oklahoma 73703

If you live near or around the Enid, Oklahoma area, you can also drop off a donation at Covenant Life Christian Church.  Donation drop-off times are Monday - Saturday from 11am - 6pm.  Breanna Parada wears a size 8/9 in pants and a size large in shirts/blouses.  Her daughter wears 5T/6T and her husband wears 32/34 in pants and size large in shirts.  The church is also accepting clothing of all sizes, baby/toddler items, furniture/appliances, non perishable foods, toiletry items are other essential items for other storm victims.
 
Blessings To You!
Toni Keltner
Shower of Hope Oklahoma