Sumter United Ministries client pays it forward as we all should

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  — 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

We at Sumter United Ministries Emergency Shelter strive daily to be love personified. We are in the business of grace! It doesn’t matter how many times we see the same face or hear the same scenario; our assignment remains the same, and that is to allow grace to abound. So as school starts back and as we get back into our routines, let us not forget to love on the less fortunate. As the summer stretches on, we here at Sumter United Ministries are still looking for businesses and churches to host hydration stations for our transient neighbors. We are also in need of entities to provide meals by signing up on our community calendar. There is a need for hands that will spread love by volunteering at the shelter or by volunteering to move from one shelter to the other as we expand so that we are able to assist more of our transient neighbors.

I have learned over the years that love is an action word, and there are so many ways to put love to work here at Sumter United Ministries. Even our guests show love by extending their hands.

We have a friend by the name of Shaunie. She had been displaced and came to us by way of an eviction. Shaunie was not with us very long, but she always expressed a need and a desire to give back or pay it forward. Once this young lady was able to leave the shelter and get back on her feet, the first thing she did was write us a heartfelt letter extending her gratitude and attached a $50 money order to it. Now, to some that may not seem like much, but for someone who is just getting on their feet, it is a lot.

So with that being said, I encourage all of you to find it in your hearts to serve those in our communities that are unable to serve themselves. We here at Sumter United Ministries would love to partner with you in ways that will allow us all to “spread the love.” We hope to connect with you soon!

Let all that you do be done in love. — 1 Corinthians 16:14

With warmest regards.

New donations as of Aug. 20: Anonymous, $100