When people mention the State Fair it means summer is winding down and families will be needing school clothes and supplies before we know it! That’s a big deal to families who are already facing other financial strains. Reach & Restore will try to keep up with the kids clothing requests.

We each have our own battles. Not everyone has a network of people to ask for guidance or a listening ear to process a thought or voice a concern. Reach & Restore is a connecting place for our referrals and even our volunteers, who are going through some kind of struggle, to relax, chat and get some needs met. It is a special place because of those who pass through and those who support in many ways.

One of our dear volunteers who listens and offers to pray for people is currently battling a serious sickness. It’s our turn to help him fight his battle by doing the same for him! God is his hope and comfort. Thank you!

We are heartbroken to have lost a dear volunteer last week due to complications after surgery. Richard VanSickle was a veteran, connector, friend, and neighbor, who contributed his time to so many in our community. He picked up our donations of food from Caribou, Starbucks and Famous Daves twice a week. When Dick had a conflict with the schedule he would find a friend to be his substitute! He planned ahead for his surgery recovery, lining up his substitutes for a number of weeks. What a gift to have known him. The employees at the pick up locations always looked forward to his visits because of his warm smile and wonderful stories. I asked Dick to write down his life stories and he had been working on it. He shared his love for his adored wife, children, neighborhood and country. His sons were so thoughtful to come to Reach & Restore to share the news of their loss with us!

THANK YOU Mr. VanSickle for leaving a legacy of kindness, respect and generosity. We are so grateful to have enjoyed your company and help. Many people have been blessed by the food you brought into the doors of Reach & Restore. Our prayers go out for your loved ones. You will be missed.