The holiday season is a time for joy and togetherness. We celebrate with our family and friends, sharing love and laughs, giving thanks and gifts. If you are anything like me, the holidays are also a time of introspection. It is a time to slow down and take a good look at your life. Many of us have an overabundance of things to be thankful for, even if we don’t always feel like we do. If you have a roof over your head, shoes on your feet, and food on your plate, you are doing better than many. Perhaps those things may not seem like luxuries, but there are a multitude of people in our very own community that do not have access to the things we often take for granted. That is why the Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter of Texarkana needs YOUR help.
The Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter (RSOS) has been serving the citizens of Texarkana for over twenty-three years. Randy Sams’ aim is to help those struggling with homelessness and addiction to live a meaningful, happy, and productive life by equipping them with the necessary skills and support to do so. In addition to providing food and shelter at no cost, they offer many other services. Among these services are life skills classes, financial assistance programs, job training programs, prescription assistance, transportation assistance, and case management. They have bettered countless lives in their two decades of operation, and our community is incredibly lucky to have them.
With fall upon us, and winter closing in fast, RSOS finds themselves in great need of warm clothing items and accessories. Things like coats, jackets, scarves, gloves, headwear, socks, and blankets are in short supply.
In addition to these items, the Shelter has many other needs. They are always in need of cooking/serving and cleaning supplies. Their Be The Blessing Bakery also requires baking supplies. A complete list of specific needs can be found here. If you can help fulfill any, or all, of these needs, donations can be dropped off at the Shelter at any time between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. If you would simply like to make a monetary donation, those are also welcome. Donors have the option to make a one time donation, or sign up to give monthly or annually. For questions or concerns about donations, please contact the number below.
In addition to physical or monetary donations, there are other ways to lend a hand. If you are interested in donating your time, RSOS’ can always use volunteers. There are many ways to volunteer, such as hosting donation drives for shelter needs, or providing evening meals at the shelter. To volunteer your time or services, you can sign up online.
When it comes to donating, whatever it may be, you might think “I can’t give enough to make a difference,” but even the smallest gift can make a huge difference. You cannot change the world overnight, but you can do your part to make it a little brighter each day. Whatever you can do, or donate, will be greatly appreciated. After all, it is the least we can do for an organization that has been loving and caring for our community for over twenty years. While you are enjoying your holiday festivities with your family and friends, take a moment to spare a thought for those who are less fortunate. Spread joy and love wherever you can. Please make this holiday season a season of giving.
For more information on the Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter and its programs, please visit them online or call 903-792-7024. You can also follow them on Facebook, and Twitter.