Howe's secret weapon

h h i d h lives of 150 local e back to school ories to those who need ard work and ot have been possible d away, Linda says she mething to do.” Peggy dent from 2000-2013 for named, meant a lot to in 2013. She says that d Peggy was such a hen Linda works at that it is calming and he feels God’s presence ound her She says that nistry to her community mpact it has on her ive impact it has on the lives of others

When asked about the ministry of Peggy’s Porch to our neighbors, she said that two stories came to mind She tells of one day when an older woman and her 40-year old daughter stopped by They appeared to be ashamed to come in but they needed clothing The daughter asked Linda, “Can I give you a hug?” She put her head on Linda’s shoulder and said, “You don’t know how much this means to me; these are the first new clothes I have had in three years!”

On another occasion, a mother with three daughters and one son came in. They offered assistance to the son and he told them what size jeans he needed When they located his size, he was overheard saying to his mom, “Now I have two pair of jeans so you don’t have to wash my jeans every night ”

Making a difference That’s Linda Her dedication and hours of tireless labor sorting, folding, stacking arranging and storing clothes day after day truly makes a difference for the residents of our community But, Linda does not like the spotlight. She points to people like Norma Wallace and Peggy Richardson and so many others whom she admires…who have done…or would have done…what she is doing. When given the opportunity, she selflessly focuses on the needs of Peggy’s Porch and the needs of our community She tells us that donations of gently-worn or new clothes, shoes, accessories and athletic wear are always welcome; however, the building has some repair needs and regular volunteers are needed She would like to have enough volunteers for Peggy’s Porch to be open every Saturday and one afternoon during the week

What would Linda say to a potential Peggy’s Porch volunteer? “It can be hard work, but it is so rewarding and fun You get to meet new people and see people you have not seen in awhile You will feel really good once you have been up there spending time and helping others.” She concludes, “Peggy’s Porch is an awesome place it makes a difference for those who volunteer…and for those who are blessed by free clothes and by God’s mercy and love.” Peggy’s Porch has been the beneficiary of the generosity of the City of Howe and has partnered with many churches in our community, Howe ISD, the Chamber of Commerce, the Boy Scouts and many local continued on Page #14