Reys Of Hope Project

2012-01-29T03:10:00.003-05:00

Picked up Father John from the hospitol during the
rain the other day.Believe me he is happy to be home.

We Still Need These Items

2012-01-26T10:32:00.001-05:00

1.baby stroeller
2.infant clothes boy/girl
3.size 8 boys slacks
4.plus size clothes for women
5.socks for children

A FEW VISITORS

2012-01-25T19:14:00.002-05:00

Fr John would like to thank our Christmas volunteer John
for making time in his busy schedule and coming up
to the hospitol to see him.
And Sara from Mt Holly.He enjoyed their visit.

THANK YOU FOR THE ITEMS

2012-01-25T19:04:00.004-05:00

We would like to thank Susan from Plumstead township for the bags
of childrens clothes and the boxes of shoes.
We also would like to thank the store Nautica for their donation of adult clothes.
Best part of the donations was they were all Winter clothes which we needed.

a few pick ups & drop offs

2012-01-24T09:48:00.002-05:00

Fr John should be home by Thursday the doctor said.Meanwhile
I have done 3 pick ups in the Ocean County area.Childrens clothes and
1 microwave cart.1 drop off to a woman who is starting over and needed
clothes to add to her sparse wardrobe.She lives in Jackson and has just
found herself a part time job.

2012-01-20T20:34:00.002-05:00

Fr John is back in the hospitol due to his COPD.
Looks like I have to do a few pick ups without him.
Hopefully he will be back home in a few days.

2012-01-18T19:53:00.003-05:00

The American people are some of the most generous people in the world.
Thanks to all who donated we helped 365 families not counting some homeless people who we gave blankets to in the year 2011.

2012-01-16T15:56:00.001-05:00

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR VOLUNTEER DEBBIE FOR DONATING ITEMS FOR THIS FAMILY.CHILDREN COULD NOT WAIT TO WATCH THE VCR MOVIES ON TV.

2012-01-16T15:47:00.000-05:00

These are Rolands children.They wanted their picture taken too.
They all were so excited.The one in pink said "Bless you for helping us"
And then said everybody say"cheese" and we all laughed.You would of thought she was the photographer.

Our drop off this morning 4 family of 7

2012-01-16T15:42:00.001-05:00

Fr John and Roland.Roland is the man who actually asked for our help.
What is rare is we have only had 5 men in all the years ask us for assistance.
Roland was so grateful he actually got choked up over all that we bought him.
Someone had dropped off some used furniture prior to us arriving.

Car this morning loaded & ready to go

2012-01-16T15:35:00.001-05:00

2012-01-13T18:11:00.003-05:00

Young mom desperately needs a stroller.She does not drive and its difficult to carry the baby every where.If you can help please let us know.We will schedule a pick up .

We are working with a family of 7 who has lost most of their clothes and small household items.Father lost his job and soon was behind on all the bills even his rent.They were evicted and have moved several times.Wife is handicapped.This father has finally found a part time job .He can not get food stamps until the end of March.This family must prove residence of at least 2 mos.where they now live to get any assistance.We need blankets , pots & pans,kitchen towels,dish detergent,toiletries and size 10/12 girl clothes.Thanks to one of our volunteers she was able to get most of the clothes donated to us for the other family members.

We donated some crafts to a woman in Lakehurst.Some of the neighborhood children do crafts at her house .This is just one person making a difference in her neighborhood.If children are involved in activities there is a less chance of them hanging on the streets.

2012-01-10T14:16:00.000-05:00

Fr.John bought some Valentines Cards for a family in Seaside

God Called Little Peterson Home

2012-01-09T19:56:00.001-05:00

This is one of the handicapped children at FR Johns Orphanage in Haiti.Little Peterson lived longer than anyone expected.He will surely be missed.If you would like to learn more about the orphanage go to http://holyangelsOrphanage.blogspot.com

2012-01-09T14:33:00.000-05:00

This morning dropped off womens clothes size 3x and cable ready tv to a woman in Burlington

Todays email recieved

2012-01-09T14:27:00.002-05:00

Good morning John. I just wanted to thank you, and anyone else who had a hand with the wonderful gift you gave us! You really had a big part in making my 1st Holidays with my daughter very happy! I couldn't believe the size of the formula, it lasted her over a month! The clothes were so cute and she really likes and pays attention to the toys! The coupons for the hams were amazing too! Hope you enjoyed your holidays and are feeling well. Thank you for everything! You are greatly appreciated!!

Jamie and Brianna

ITEMS WE NEED

2012-01-08T11:07:00.004-05:00

1.baby powder
2.size 8 slacks for boys
3.size 14/16 boys
4.baby items always
5.preschool books
6.blankets for a family that keeps their heat on 67 degrees.Children feel cold.
7.baby receiving blankets and baby bottles
8.toddler toys
9.socks for boys/girls

A few recently donated outfits

2012-01-08T11:06:00.000-05:00

Fr John said"the one with the heart on it is just in time for Valentines Day!

Christening Outfit Donated

2012-01-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

Imagine wearing these all day every day

2012-01-07T09:03:00.003-05:00

Ken has to wear these every day because he has atrophy. Atrophy is a deterioration of body mass or muscle due to the fact Ken can no longer use his legs.Often the feet start to droop or curl.Wearing this daily slows down the process.

Prayer Request

2012-01-06T21:36:00.003-05:00

Please keep Ken in your prayers.He is going through a rough time adjusting to being paralyzed since Hurricane Irene.And is still struggling to get any money from Workman's comp or disability.With no income he is in jeopardy of being evicted from the home he loves.Also behind on all of his bills.Anyone who would like to donate food etc..please let us know.He was told he could not apply for food stamps until the end of Febuary 2012.

2 pick ups

2012-01-06T21:27:00.003-05:00

Would like to thank Mary from Whiting for the bag of coats size large and x-large for women
Also another bag full of sweaters and women shoes

We picked up some children's books today which we always need.We have a Day Care Center that just emailed us recently for books that would be appropriate for children that are 2-4 yrs old.
The books today are for 6-8 yrs old.So if anyone has any preschool books they would like to donate please let us know.

Books 4 A Schools Library

2012-01-04T14:27:00.002-05:00

A lady emailed us a request for some books back in November.We put her request on our list.As soon as we received extra children's books we contacted the school.After the hectic holidays we finally delivered them today.Everyone at the school was very nice and delighted with the donation.

New Years Get Together

2012-01-04T14:21:00.000-05:00

Friends and Family enjoying a dinner at a nice Italion Restaurant

The House At Mullica Hill

2012-01-04T09:20:00.002-05:00

When we arrived we were greeted by several children at the door.They all seemed well mannered and came outside to carry the items and toys into the house.None of the children had socks on and 2 walked outside with no shoes.The small 2 ft Christmas tree had no gifts under it.The walls had Christmas lights hanging up among the torn wall paper.The house was an old farm house located near a main highway with what was a corn field behind it.There was no house for miles.Their was a sign in the yard saying FOR SALE.Their landlord is trying to sell the property.Because it is an old house you can feel the draft coming in around the windows.BRRRRRRR.Was it chilly. The children are laughing and excited that they have popcorn to eat.And a new bike for them to ride.Behind the house is piles of garbage.The mom can not afford garbage pick up.So for now they keep it in back of the house.The glass in the front door is broken.The sofa is old and dilapidated.The TV is on a small broken down table with rabbit ears.The kitchen has a large table with 7 miss matched chairs.A few windows have curtains on them.Some have blankets hanging instead of curtains.
FR John and I feel like we should of done more for this family.But,they seem thrilled at us just being there with what we brought.There is no vehicle nor man in the picture.The mom has health issues which was quite noticeable.All the children are clean and their hair is brushed.
They make us feel welcome and even invite us in to visit.We explain to them we have along drive back or we would stay for awhile.They all give out hugs and wave good by as we drive off.
We will keep this family in our prayers.Like so many we have seen over the years.They have very little yet seem grateful for just knowing someone cared.

Todays Schedule

2012-01-03T13:16:00.003-05:00

Picked up 1 box of infant clothes for a baby girl.Just in time to help the mom who is having a baby girl any day.Pick up at 11:45 am dropped off at 12;30 noon.The parents were so thrilled.Now the baby will have some much needed items to wear.

We were so pleased to help this couple.This is their first baby and they did not realize just how much one needs.We are also grateful to the lady who donated the clothes.

2 drop offs this morning

2012-01-01T20:59:00.002-05:00

Dropped off baby clothes for a baby boy to a dad who emailed us and asked for assistance.His family consists of 4 boys and number 5 is due any day.Dad had gotten hurt on the job and at this time he is on temporary disability.The checks are equal to half of what he made when he was working.He is struggling with his bills as so many are.

Dropped off boy clothes to a mom who has recently become a widow.Her son is 7 yrs old.He wears size 8 slacks and medium shirts.We had plenty of shirts and socks but only 1 pair of slacks.Her husband had been sick for some time.He lost his battle with Cancer 1 month before Thanksgiving.Anyone who would like to donate some pants size 8 for this boy please email us.We will gladly schedule a pick up.

HAPPY NEW YEARS 2012

2012-01-01T07:36:00.003-05:00

Here is a small paragraph out of an email we received today.
Thank you so much.This is the first year as a family had a ham dinner for Christmas and gifts in a longtime.Bless you and everyone who made this year memorable for my family.

The Grand Number Of Families Helped Thanks To All Of Santa's Helpers

2011-12-29T10:13:00.005-05:00

FR JOHN.PAT and volunteers Debbie,John delivered to 71 FAMILIES & 201 Children

Although PEACHESS has been sick for some time she delivered to 22 FAMILIES & 25 Children

Dorothy our volunteer helped 15 families.

Our total is 108 FAMILIES Subtotal- 226 Children Our volunteer Dorothy did not get an exact number on how many children were in these families.She handed out toys to needy parents for their children in a poor section.Some parents took 3 toys per child some only took 1.Some children picked out a toy.

Picture of a tree one of the families sent in

2011-12-29T10:05:00.000-05:00

Several Items Left Behind From Holiday Collection

2011-12-29T10:02:00.000-05:00

This double stroeller is going to a needy mom today.She has 2 little ones,ages 1 and 2 yrs old.

Presents for 3 Women & Their Children For Christmas

2011-12-29T09:57:00.000-05:00

As you can see below they were all smiles

A BASKET OF JOY FOR CHRISTMAS

2011-12-29T09:49:00.000-05:00

This lovely basket with other gifts was donated by a woman from Medford

F.Y.I

2011-12-28T19:39:00.003-05:00

Alot of the children that we helped for Christmas were children who's parents were told they were to old to recieve toys.The cut off for alot of Organizations and churches is 11 or 12 yrs old.We feel its not fair to give gifts to some family members and not others.And due to all those who helped us we made sure every person in a family recieved a gift.Those older than 16 yrs old recieved atleast 1 gift including a parent.

This bike & Helmet was donated from a Maple Shade Family

2011-12-27T09:57:00.001-05:00

This little boy said this is the best present he has ever gotten.
This is the first time he has ridden a bike.His mom wanted us to thank the
family again.SO THANK YOU!

A BABY GIRL DUE IN 3 WEEKS

2011-12-26T21:30:00.003-05:00

A woman asked us if we could give her daughter some baby girl clothes.Will be her first granddaughter.They have a crib,onesies,stroller ,1 package of diapers,an outfit to bring the baby home in,bottles,receiving blankets and 1 baby toy.We would like to help them but we need some outfits 0-3 mos for this family.

Tomorrows drop off

2011-12-26T16:16:00.002-05:00

We learned of a woman who had been promised to receive help from a person.After walking a half hour to a public parking lot and waiting over an hour she realized no one was showing up.Yes another single mom with no vehicle and trying to make ends meet.Although her 2 foot tree had been decorated there was no gifts under her tree Christmas morning.We heard about her story and FR John realized Santa's sled must of broken down.We told the lady why Santa did not make it to her house.Assured the woman we were bringing the items intended for her children.Reluctantly she gave us her address.She lives in Mullica Hill.Not even close to where we deliver.Due to such a heart breaking story & disappointed children we will try to be there before noon in the morning.

OUR WISH LIST

2011-12-26T16:13:00.002-05:00

GAS CARD SO WE CAN CONTINUE TO DRIVE TO THOSE WE HELP
CLOTHES FOR A FEW NAKED BARBIES WE HAD DONATED TO US
A BUILDING SO WE DO NOT HAVE TO BE CRAMPED IN OUR GARAGE
Always can use children & baby items in season

We had 4 footballs donated

2011-12-25T21:24:00.001-05:00

And when we learned a boy liked sports we added one in with the other 3 gifts.Yes thats right from us each child
recieved 4 gifts this year.

FRUIT BASKET & Tree for 30 yr daughter & 75 yr mom

2011-12-25T21:16:00.001-05:00

The daughter had emailed and said it had been so long
since they had gotten anything for the holidays.
She said it would be so nice if someone would just remember
them this holiday.SAY NO MORE WE WILL REMEMBER YOU!
AND WE DID

We recieved stockings also 4 Christmas

2011-12-25T21:11:00.000-05:00

Before going out the door remember;

2011-12-24T09:00:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is a mystery.Today is a gift.That is why its
called a PRESENT!

3 More Drop offs until Christmas

2011-12-23T10:40:00.002-05:00

Today have a drop off in Moorestown around 1 pm.
Tomorrow have 2 drop offs near Little Egg Harbor before noon.
Morrestown has a 16 yr old son.Mother has alot of health issues and can not work.
Both families near Little Egg Harbor have 3 children under the ages of 6 yrs.

CHRISTMAS FOR US WILL BE SPENT WITH FAMILY.
WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR ALL THAT EVERYONE DOES TO HELP US MAKE THE HOLIDAYS NICE FOR FAMILIES THAT ARE STRUGGLING.ALL WE CAN SAY IS
YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME!

2 emails that came in last week

2011-12-23T10:27:00.004-05:00

A woman emailed us saying she was hungry.Her and her children had nothing to eat.I explained to her we do not normally do food.And gave her a list of several food banks.One nite later our phone rang after 9 pm at nite.It was the lady who sent us the 2 emails.She went on and on how she had no way to the food bank.How her health was bad and her children had nothing to eat.By morning FR John took his food out of his freezer and refrigerator for this family.Food was delivered.And when the woman answered the door there on her table were several packs of cigarettes the name brand no less.She was grateful and told us after the New Years she will have food stamps.(I now understand why she has been short on money for food.)

TODAYS DROP OFF

2011-12-22T15:32:00.003-05:00

Left house around 10 am.Arrived at 1st drop off by 11;30 am.FR John had to have his WAWA Coffee first.When we arrived there we met a woman carrying a 5 month old baby boy into the house.Boy timing is everything.When the woman realized who we were she was so excited.She had been asking for help for sometime and thought no one was going to come through for her and her 2 sons.This is her story.After 7 yrs living in an abusive situation she finally had enough one day and decided she had to leave.Her 8 yr old son and her left with only the clothes on their back.Leaving behind toys,cable tv,Ipods,computers and nice furniture.They moved into a shelter.The place was over crowded but atleast they had each other.She now has a place for her and her children to live and some mattresses for beds and a few pieces of furniture.A tv that is not hooked up to cable .They can watch videos on it however.The toys that they have will be the ones that they open on Christmas.They need household items such as silverware,toiletries,
blankets,towels,pots n pans,pot holders,bowls etc..She is determined to make it.And we think with alittle help she will do just fine.
Next drop off 12;30 noon met the dad at the door.He is a single dad raising his son the best that he knows how.He works seasonal and in the Winter he struggles with the bills,especially to heat the house.Like the woman before him he was overwhelmed with the items we gave.
Arrived home around 2;30 pm earliest in awhile. Now I am going to take a nap.

2 families we helped for Christmas

2011-12-22T09:34:00.003-05:00

Dad with crushed arm.Hurt on the job.No income as Workman's comp does not want to pay anything and disability feels its Workman's comp responsibility.Mean while his arm is useless.Has no feeling in it.We gave him a brand new Chaps Coat and his family a gift certificate for groceries.Also heavy insulated gloves for dad so his fingers wont get frost bite in the Winter if he is outside.Which could happen due to no feeling in his hand.His 2 sons ages 2 and 10 yrs old received cars,trucks,puzzles,transformer coloring books and crayons,magnetic alphabets,books,fire truck that makes sounds,blocks and some winter clothes.All new thanks to generous donars.Wife received a warm cozy pink sleeper.

Single mom with 3 children under 6 yrs.2 girls ages 3 & 5 yrs ,youngest is boy.The 3 yr old received 2 dolls ,one actually crys.A few stuff characters from Sesame Street that move or make noise.Like tickle me elmo.5 yr old girl received game CHUTES n LADDERS,doll with a small stroller,tea set with pretend groceries included.1 coloring book and a 3 wheel pink scooter.Baby boy received soft blocks,baby walker,big soft ball,2 soft cars,and some Winter clothes.They had 2 cats which we threw in a bag of cat food that Debbie our volunteer donated.
Both of these families were very thankful for everything received.And they wanted us to thank all who made it possible.SO THANK YOU EVERYBODY!THESE FAMILIES WILL HAVE A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS THANKS TO YOUR GENEROSITY!

NEEDED ASAP FOR KEN

2011-12-21T18:20:00.002-05:00

Need a narrow type shower chair with no arms.Ken would like to get in the shower.instead of getting sponge baths.Ken is the man who recently became paralyzed due to Hurricane Irene's damage.

A strange request but medically needed

2011-12-21T13:45:00.002-05:00

A woman emailed us and asked for stool softeners,prune juice and food with fiber.She told us of her daughter who was now 15 yrs old.She has been a quadriplegic since she was an infant.Her ex boyfriend had shaken her as an infant so much that she became paralyzed.Although he is still in jail as far as she knows her daughters prognosis is not good.Although her daughter needs round the clock care and does not live with her.She visits every weekend.Paralyzed people are not as active as someone who can move around.And it is very easy for them to become impacted which can lead to more medical complications.We were more than pleased to give her these items plus a soft blanket and an egg crate for this child to sleep on.She also received a $50 gift card.

Short Note 2 all who donated/volunteered

2011-12-19T19:01:00.003-05:00

So far we have seen many tears of happiness.And recieved lots of hugs from those we have given Christmas gifts to.Thanks to all who helped these families you's have restored HOPE,FAITH in mankind.God Bless you all!

A Sad Situation

2011-12-18T18:35:00.005-05:00

2 of our holiday volunteers Mary & Debbie visited a family that is really struggling.Although it was different days they both agreed on one thing,its a very sad situation.The house is sparse with old furniture that is worn.There is no Christmas tree nor gifts.Their refrigerator is almost empty.The children play on a bare wooden floor.The only thing that resembles a holiday is coming is a torn paper that the children wrote MERRY CHRISTMAS on.And the paper is taped on the wall.The children are excited that both of our volunteers bought them some gifts and a small bag of clothes.They asked about a tree.No one knew they did not have one until the volunteers showed up at their house.A small 1 yr old has only a diaper on and seems like a happy baby boy.Unaware of the hardships the family is going threw.The mother is a single 50ish yr old.She has no car,and must walk over a half an hour for groceries when she has food stamps.The last 2 weeks of every month the food gets scarce.The children do get a meal through the school when they are there.DYFS is involved.Trying to help a family where they have gone from bad to worse.But its not enough.We will give them a tree and pray that someone will donate some food or a gift card to us.We would like to put some food in their refrigerator so they can atleast have a nice Christmas dinner.We normally don't get food.Occasionally we get turkeys for Thanksgiving or a ham for Christmas.We are hoping someone will read this and make an exception this year for this family.

We have some of the nicest volunteers

2011-12-17T18:26:00.004-05:00

We do not only have wonderful people who donate to us.We have wonderful volunteers.Just today John our volunteer spent his day off at Kens working on making a platform for the end of his ramp.Just another example of how 1 person can make a difference in someone else's life.
We did 2 drop offs and donated a bed to a family.Their daughter had been sleeping on the floor for sometime.We know this bed is bed bug free because it was FR Johns.He now has a therapeutic one for his back.So the 2 yr old bed has found a good home.And we threw some Christmas gifts in for the children.

This was 1 toy pickup

2011-12-16T14:43:00.003-05:00

Laurie,Ellen And Stan surprised us with a car load of new toys for families that were not on our list.32 families emailed us 2 days before these items arrive.We were so afraid we were going to have to turn some of the families away.Thanks to these 3 generous donars we are able to help them.

That's right 2 new bikes.1 for a boy 1 for a girl,plus helmets.Now is that awesome or what.
Debbie our volunteer made the pick up since we were some where else doing drop offs.

The gifts were for children 12 mos to adult in the back of car all marked in separate bags.You could tell EVERYONE who donated to us put much thought and time into their gifts.This will be the best year we have .You would never know by my garage that the economy is in trouble.Why?Because all of Santa's helpers have gone above and beyond.

Even Debbie is excited to show us all of the items for the families.The children this year will get 4-6 gifts each.Last year they received 2-4 gifts each from us.That did not count on what people had bought specifically for their adopted family.

Looks like a Warehouse

2011-12-16T14:30:00.001-05:00

This use to be my kitchen.Now it looks like a warehouse.And just think we are going to deliver all these.hate to see the gas bill.

Finally A baby Walker & Excersizor

2011-12-16T14:26:00.001-05:00

MARLTON PICK UP

2011-12-16T14:22:00.000-05:00

6 Foot Christmas tree

2011-12-16T14:20:00.001-05:00

6 Foot Christmas tree went to a family in Toms River.
The husband wanted to surprize his family. This year they were not able to buy a real tree.

Christmas decoration I threw in with tree

Small Christmas Trees

2011-12-16T14:15:00.000-05:00

BEFORE

AFTER DECORATED

Deliveries today started at 10 am to 3:30 pm

2011-12-15T15:42:00.003-05:00

Met a couple who came all the way from Long Branch for Christmas items for their 4 children.We met then at Wawa in Lakewood.
Drop off in Barnegat.Man lost his job after getting hurt.He is trying to get some kind of assistance in the mean time things look bleak.He has 2 boys and a wife.
Drop off at Manahawkin family of 3 children.Father had several heart attacks and now unable to work.
Drop off at Bayville.1 grand daughter.Grandma is on fixed income and has never bought a gift for her Christmas due to money has always been tight.This year would like to make a nice Christmas for her.Grandma wrote"I am not getting any younger.I would like a few gifts for my only granddaughter so she will have something to remember me by".Can you help?I live in Ocean County.

8:30 am Debbie the volunteer dropped off load of new toys.Then she picked up from me gifts for 6 adopted families.She is delivering to New Eygpt,Lakehurst,Lakewood,Bricktown and Toms River.In that order if everyone answers their door.I usually do not get started until 9 am but,during Christmas season I make an effort to start early.

Here's a Picture of Ken's New Ramp!!

2011-12-15T06:32:00.000-05:00

A HUGE thank you our donor!!! Here it is in all it's glory!

As I layed Sleeping

2011-12-14T19:38:00.002-05:00

As I laid sleeping last nite little did I know people were sending emails to us.When I woke up around 3 am to use the rest room I thought I would check the computer.There was over 10 families asking for Christmas help.Yikes!I thought this must be a dream.Went back to bed.Nope,this morning those emails were there with more.Thank goodness Debbie our volunteer did a pick up of another new batch of toys not designated for any particular family.Guess I will start sorting items tomorrow.WHERE IS SANTA WHEN I NEED HIM??

1 of Santas helpers lives near Bamber Lake

2011-12-13T17:55:00.003-05:00

On the way to get our pick up tonite we followed the GPS directions.Since it was already dark out we had trouble reading the street signs.Good thing we were not driving fast since the GPS continued telling us to go straight thinking maybe there was a road or bridge over the lake.There wasn't and if we had listened we would now be at the bottom of that lake.(And Fr John can't swim).Talked to a man who was jogging.He explained to us to go back on Lacey Rd and follow the road on the other side of the lake.Finally,success we found it.And we received 6 large boxes full of Christmas gifts.This woman is the sister to the woman in Marlton with the 2 Pekingese.Just think they made REYS OF HOPE a family affair.We are so delighted for the children that we were chosen.

YEAH! A RAMP HAS BEEN DONATED

2011-12-13T14:09:00.002-05:00

Our holiday volunteer John went and picked up a ramp today for the man who was paralyzed from aftermath of Hurricane Irene.A woman in Marlton read his request and was nice enough to donate him one.Now that he will be actually able to get outside. It will only be a matter of time before he will be out and about .We could tell when we met him he was determined not to let this accident hold him down.Miracles do happen.Thanks to angels here on earth,doing Gods' work..

Our Recent Pickups

2011-12-12T19:34:00.003-05:00

Met a real nice couple from Bordentown that donated a car load of children's toys,clothes and other items.
Picked up some Christmas gifts from a couple in Maple Shade who adopted several of the families.The car was over flowing.These families will be in shock when they see all the wrapped boxes.This couple also had the cutest little Pekinese dogs.We are truely blessed that this couple decided to help our families this year.They also donated some dog food for someone struggling to buy dog food right now.
Dropped off some items in Marlton and then did another pick up in Vincentown area.Long day.We are tired but after a good nite sleep we will start all over in the morning.
Gave our volunteer Debbie 10 trash bags full of toys,clothes,baby wipes and other items for 5 families that have lost everything and have been living in a motel.Yes,they are all in the same motel.So like Debbie said its all in one stop.However it is out of our area-Asbury Park .They sounded so desperate and Debbie was willing to drop off for us since we do not have much free time between drop offs and pick ups before Christmas.THANKS DEBBIE WITHOUT YOUR HELP THESE 5 FAMILIES WOULD NOT OF BEEN HELPED.We can't be 2 places at one time.

A Heartfelt Thank You To Us -

2011-12-11T15:41:00.000-05:00

Here's our super FEEL GOOD for the year!! It's wonderful to know we helped make a difference for this man!!

"Father John,

I want to thank you, Pat and everyone who is helping me. I can not thank you guys enough! You basically saved my life and you don't even know it. I was at a state of not wanting to wake up anymore and felt like a failure and loser. You gave me strength to keep going on and a will to live. I was stressed about food, gifts, Christmas, getting to my doctors appointments, my medications, stress on my girlfriend of 15 years who has dystonia, rent and bills. Your encouraging words, help, and the help from others has given me the hope that I had lost. The many friends I had, don't even bother with me now and I felt so abandoned. Strangers and people I don't even know have shown me more love and care then I can absorb at this moment. I don't know how to react. When I get visitors from strangers, it brightens up my heart. At one point I was wondering if there was a God or even hope. People take it for granted that life will be easy. It is only that way for me because of Father John, Pat, Debbie and Reys of Hope. Thank you all and GOD BLESS YOU ALL!"

DESPERATE

2011-12-11T09:28:00.004-05:00

RECENTLY A MAN HAS BECOME PARALYZED AND IS IN NEED OF A RAMP.DUE TO HE RENTS AND HAS A LANDLORD HE IS UNABLE TO GET A PERMANENT RAMP.RIGHT NOW HE HAS NO WAY OUT OF HIS HOUSE WITHOUT A PORTABLE RAMP.HE IS TRYING TO GET WORK MANS COMP.BUT THEY TELL HIM TRY SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITIES.SOCIAL SECURITY TELLS HIM TO TRY WORKMAN'S COMP SINCE HE GOT HURT AT JOB SITE.A LAWYER IS HELPING HIM PRO BONO BECAUSE THIS MAN HAS NO INCOME RIGHT NOW AND IS BEHIND ON ALL HIS BILLS INCLUDING RENT.
THE LAWYER TOLD HIM THE CASE COULD BE TIED UP IN COURT FOR OVER 1 YEAR!

Tree we donated to a nice couple

2011-12-10T16:00:00.000-05:00

Friendly reminder

2011-12-10T09:57:00.001-05:00

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR FAMILIES DUE BY DEC 18/11
Thanks

OUR WISH LIST

2011-12-09T19:01:00.004-05:00

GAS CARD
BARBIE CLOTHES FOR OUR NAKED BARBIES
A BUILDING SO WE WOULD HAVE MORE ROOM THAN THE GARAGE

SANTA ARE U LISTENING?

2011-12-09T08:11:00.002-05:00

Hi I am 16 years old.I use library computer.Santa has not been to my house in years.Since daddy left.Mom says Santa is a myth.I have 2 brothers one is 5 one is 7.I want them to get a gift from Santa and a tree.Can you help.
Although we do not know Santa personally .We do know his helpers.And we will make sure this year your house is not forgotten.

Someone cared

2011-12-08T21:44:00.003-05:00

This morning a woman who donates & adopts a Christmas family yearly emailed us about a young woman who needed help.After a few phone calls we found out the young woman's address and more about her families predicament. I am happy to say by Monday they should have a Christmas tree,decorations,food ,clothes and a few gifts.I just love it when people take time to care about their fellowman.I call these people angels on earth.And we sure need more of them.If you know someone struggling with the holiday please let us know we just might be able to help them.

3 THANK YOU's from 3 emails we recieved tonite

2011-12-07T19:30:00.003-05:00

Thank you for helping my family.I asked for a tree and found angels instead.I will never forget your kindness.

Thanks to everyone who helps your organization my children will have a better Christmas than they have in years.Bless all of you!

I wanted to help this mom with 5 girls but did not have the extra money to buy them gifts.Thank you.Do you know what day you will be dropping the tree and gifts off?

Rain or Shine we will deliver

2011-12-07T10:23:00.002-05:00

Miserable day today.Cold rain and dreary but we are headed out to make deliveries in Burlington Co. Think will stop at Wawa for some hot chocolate.Stay warm everybody.

An Email with a few questions ???

2011-12-06T15:35:00.008-05:00

I will answer these as best as I can
"If someone wanted a tax receipt how do figure on what the value is?"If we get things itemized we go by a value guide.Example:12 baby bottles used-2.75 for 6 bottles. 5 dresses used and good conditions-$2.oo each, If items are not listed with quantity then 1 white trash bag full value $60.00 .1 black trash bag full$80.00.Because we have no way of knowing what is in the bags.If we are donated new items and the tags are still on them then we credit the exact price on tags.
"Why do you deliver items instead of letting us come to you to get them or pick them out?"
We do not have a building so we do this out of our home/garage.We also know most of the people we help do not have transportation.We want to make certain there are no Mercedes with 3 car garage at the home we are helping.We do not make anyone fill out any forms or show us personal records.Although some offer it.We feel most people are embarrassed enough to ask for help.Although the economy puts alot of them in this position.
How long has Reys Of Hope been around?We have been around 41/2 yrs.Which we would not be able to without generous people donating .Also being fairly healthy helps so we can do pick ups and deliveries.
Where do you find the people to help?Occasionally some are referred to us.Some by word of mouth.A few we have helped in the past.Then if we see a post on the Internet that is continuously asking for help we might get in touch with them.Meet them ,then evaluate their situation as best as we can.A couple times a year another organization might ask us to help a family that is in our area and not in theirs.
Does Fr John have any other organizations?Yes,his first organization is http://holyangelsOrphanage.blogspot.com/
this is an orphanage located in Haiti.After 10 years being involved with Haiti FR John thought it would be nice to do something for families in New Jersey.When we all met including my sister Peachess it was decided to be a part of The Holy Angels .And the people who help us have been very receptive.
What type of people donate to your organization?Most are very generous people and they will wait until we can schedule a pick up thats convenient for both of us.Those people donate from the heart.Others just want to get rid of stuff as fast as they can and are impatient on our schedule.Then there are very few people who donate because there are items left from someone that has died.We like the ones who donate from the heart.

Baby Lotion Donation

2011-12-06T09:27:00.000-05:00

Yilan also sent us some baby lotion to go with the desitin.Thanks Yilan!Pictures in background I took.I have a thing about the sky & clouds.lol

4 more artificial trees have been donated

2011-12-06T09:20:00.001-05:00

Just came in early this am.Christmas trees,childrens books,2 umbrella stroellers and 2 mens Winter coats.Thanks to Melodi in Jackson and our volunteer Debbie.

Bale Of Straw Donated

2011-12-06T09:14:00.003-05:00

Cedar Post Market was kind enough to donate 1 bale of straw for a family in Jackson.Now their dog will be very cozy in his dog house.For anyone who needs Christmas wreaths etc..please patronize our local Markets & Stores.THANK YOU CEDAR POST MARKET we truly are grateful.

Jelly & Peanut Butter donation 4 the children

2011-12-05T17:25:00.001-05:00

2 Donations

2011-12-05T15:01:00.002-05:00

A mom and her daughter made 2 donations today.$40.00 and several bags of Winter clothes.We bought a large box of diapers that we needed for 2 struggling young moms.Also bought some hams with coupons Debbie our volunteer gave us.Those hams went to a soup kitchen in Mt Holly with a 50 pound bag of white rice.

97.5 FM SPORTS

2011-12-04T19:27:00.001-05:00

Fr John mentioned to our holiday volunteer Dorothy(the one who delivers to Camden) that he liked Darren Daulton.And believe it or not she found where he was signing autographs.And she went and received a picture for FR JOHN.

This is Dorothy and Darren Daulton

IMPRESSIVE FLAGS

2011-12-04T14:20:00.001-05:00

FR JOHN AND I PASSED THESE FLAGS ON THE WAY TO DROP OFF ITEMS>AND WE WERE IMPRESSED

2 trees we donated

2011-12-04T14:07:00.000-05:00

This is one tree we donated to a family in Bricktown with 2 boxes of ornaments

This is the little tree we donated to the lady at Stafford diner.I am sure it looks better decorated.

A Christmas tree donation will lead to gifts

2011-12-03T18:42:00.002-05:00

A woman had asked us if we had a Christmas tree.She is new to the area.She was unable to bring all her things with her when she moved.We told her we had a tree that was alittle worn . Nether less she was welcome to have it if she wanted it.She said"any tree would be wonderful for me and my children."So we met her at Stratford Diner in Manahawkin and donated the tree with a box of mixed ornaments and Christmas decorations.She was delighted with the tree.Fr John sensed although she appeared happy about the tree she was upset about something.Sure enough she told FR John she lost 150 dollars through the Internet.There were Christmas gifts for children on ebay.Since she paid by Pay pal she felt that it must be safe.Only later she found out she was ripped off and now is joining others in making a formal complaint to paypal about this one account.We told her not to worry we would come up with some Christmas gifts for the 3 children.
It is ashame people take advantage of others especially around the holidays when the children would be the most affected.And parents are more vulnerable.

Part of todays email

2011-12-03T08:55:00.002-05:00

Last year your organization helped us.Although my children only recieved 4 gifts each it was better than nothing.I hope you can help us this year.
My response-We will be more than glad to help . Mean time just think of all the children in the world who do not even get 1 gift per child and consider your family lucky.

1 of our volunteers donated some food

2011-12-02T20:30:00.003-05:00

We dropped the food off with some Winter clothes for a mom with 3 children.She later emailed us and said(my children were so happy to have rolls with hot dogs for dinner,they actually pretended we were all on a picnic).Tomorrow they already know what they want to eat-Kraft's Macaroni and Cheese).

A tote of wrapped gifts

2011-12-02T20:24:00.002-05:00

Lorie and Tim from Lakehurst wrapped all these gifts for the children in Camden .Alot of the parents at the Camden project that our volunteer Dorothy goes to are crack addicts or alcoholics. Getting presents for their children are usually the last thing they do.(Thanks to Lorie & Tim we were able to spend our time doing pick ups and drop offs.

THANKS LORIE & TIM!

1 of 4 Medical kits

2011-12-02T20:17:00.001-05:00

Now a child can play being a nurse or a doctor.Wonder who will be their patient. lol

Debra did a pick up for us

2011-12-02T20:14:00.001-05:00

FR John with a box full of childrens Winter clothes.
Our new holiday volunteer.And boy can she hustle.

A donation from Jackson,NJ

2011-12-02T20:06:00.000-05:00

All these boxes were full of donated items from Jerrys Auto Body Shop in Jackson.They helped us last year and we were so pleased they remembered us this year.

The snowman was in one of the boxes.Isn't he so cute.

Looks like Ernie is waving good bye.I think he can't wait to get out of the cold garage and into the warm hands of a child.

The double stroeller

2011-12-02T19:54:00.002-05:00

FR John is showing the women how to open the stroeller.Well as soon as he figured out the latch had to be taken off
The little girl wanted a ride right away.Mom was ecstatic.The little boy was not impressed.

1 of Santas helpers,lol

2011-12-02T19:48:00.000-05:00

family 7 & 17 has been adopted

2011-12-01T10:24:00.006-05:00

Family 17 parents with 2 children has just been adopted.
FAMILY 7 has also been adopted .We knew there were still generous people in New Jersey regardless of the poor economy.We can not thank everyone enough .The children we are trying to help will definately be smiling this yr. We have alot of holiday shoppers who are helping Santa.
*WE STILL NEED A BABY WALKER IF ANYONE HAS ONE WE WILL BE MORE THAN GLAD TO PICK IT UP AT YOUR CONVENIENCE

REQUESTS KEEP COMING IN-email recieved part of email I sent

2011-11-30T18:59:00.003-05:00

Hi.Your organization helped me last year with a nice Christmas dinner.Can you help us again this year?

We normally do not get food except maybe a turkey for Thanksgiving and a ham for Christmas.We had a wonderful person last yr.who gave us extra groceries near the holidays.The club she was apart of also went overboard and donated.But,I am sorry to say she has moved out of state and we no longer are receiving alot of food for holidays.We will try to at least get your family a ham.If anything changes we will be sure to add more for a dinner.We depend solely on others and their generosity.In fact we are at their mercy.We can only help others if people help us.

Items needed for a few women

2011-11-29T19:14:00.005-05:00

Have 2 women that just came out of a women's' shelter.Left abusive situations.Starting over.Need make up,perfume and nail polish.Its been so long since they have felt pretty.
Also a 50 yr old man recently became paralyzed because he fell threw a floor .It had been damaged under the carpet.6 foot drop,layed in the hole for awhile before he was discovered.After math of Hurricane Irene.His only wish is to have a few gifts for his girlfriend of 15 yrs.It will be there first Christmas without him surprising her with presents,Christmas was always her favorite holiday.He would like to see her happy for the holidays.

Family 24 has just been adopted,

2011-11-29T14:53:00.003-05:00

A lady who has adopted one of our families for Christmas has decided to do family 24 also.Talk about luck.It is unusual to have one person take more than 1 family.So we are truely blessed for this ladys kindness and generous heart.WE WANT TO SAY THANK YOU

UPDATE ON PREVIOUS EMAIL RECIEVED

2011-11-27T18:15:00.003-05:00

The woman lives in Ocean County so we will make every effort to help her and her daughters.
The 13 yr old daughter would like the book BREAKING DAWN FOR CHRISTMAS and a pr of size 81/2 shoe,she wears size medium shirts juniors
10 yr old likes art,barbie dolls,babysitter club books ,a puzzle
size 8 pants 8/10 shirts shoe size 3
4 yr old size 6 she likes tinker bell,dolls,tea set,candylane game shoes size 11
mom wears size 16 pants xlshirts

The mom had found their Chrismas wish list in the trash.All the girls had originally made it for Santa.The mom said they must of threw it away after she told them they might not have a Christmas this yr.The oldest had written the requests for her sisters.Mom left it in trash so they would not know she saw it.So looks like we have 3 families that need adopting for Christmas.This family will be no.24

An email with no specifics yet

2011-11-27T15:21:00.004-05:00

i am a single mother of 3 girls.I am on disability due to a car accident.I have 2 vertabras in my lower back thats fractured,I get no help from anyone.Their father disappeared on us 3 yrs ago.I later found out he had left for someone else.He does not even call his children to wish them happy birthday when its there birthday.I try my best but always feel like such a failure because I can never seem to make it workThere are times I go all day without eating because there simply is not enough food and I can't let my babies go hungry.My girls constantly get made fun at in school because they do not have the nicest clothes.I can't afford them and some children can be very cruel to others.I feel so bad sometimes because as a mother you want to give your children everything.Can you help me make a nice Christmas for them?

We emailed this woman back she forgot to mention what area she lives in.Hopefully she is in one of the areas we help.If not we will have to direct her to another organization.My heart goes out to her and others like her.Will keep you posted

Straw Needed

2011-11-27T09:43:00.001-05:00

Looking for one bale of straw to be donated and delivered to a family in Jackson for their dog.

2 Families Still waiting to be adopted

2011-11-27T09:35:00.002-05:00

Family 7
Mom 3x would like a coat or some clothes
4 yr daughter likes Dora,loves Princess Tiana,Bratz dolls,games,nail polish,coloring
3 yr old son wants a bike would need training wheels,dinosuers,matchbox cars and transformers
10 yr old daughter wears junior xl,pants size 12 she likes crafts,wants a camera,art,drawing,puzzles,tioletries,leggings,pierced earrings and costume jewelry.She said any 1 of these would be awesome!
she wears and needs a medium womans coat
Family 17
size 12 mos clothes needed for boy ,soft type blocks or toys
size 3t for girls a nice doll to play with would be nice

These are the only 2 families that still have not been adopted for Christmas on our present list.

A THANK YOU

2011-11-27T06:55:00.002-05:00

Thank you sooooooooooo much for the dog food.I feel so much better .

This family was given a 25 pound bag of dogfood for their dog.They have been having finacial problems.And even buying dog food has become a hardship.Their dog is a big dog therefore he eats alot of food.Thanks to a generous person this dog will not go hungry.Its nice to know we were able to help this pet.

A Part of a very touching email we recieved this a.m.

2011-11-26T20:19:00.002-05:00

I hope I am emailing this to the right place.I looked at your site.Its amazing what you;s do.I do not know how to thank you and your organization.I just about thought no one cared enough to help us .You and your volunteers are definately angels here on earth.If there were more people like you's no one would ever be without.Again thank you I willl never forget your kindness at the store.

I emailed her back and told her I think our volunteers are angels also.I was at shop rite when this woman was in line to buy some groceries and was putting alot of the food to the side.She went over the amount of money she had on her.She was very embarrased but I told her I happened to have a gift card for Shop Rite donated by one of our volunteers.And their holiday wish was to give it to someone in need.I had to go on and on about Reys of Hope and how it would really be appreciated if she would take it.Reluctantly she took it.She was teary eyed and grateful.