current administration of government bail-outs and government take-over’s of businesses, it seems significant that through hard work, private sponsorship, religious backing and, may I say it, Divine help, these institutions (LBCH and LMCH) have not only survived, but flourished while accomplishing much! Founded in 1902, the Louisiana Methodist Orphanage Home first opened its doors in 1904 in Bunkie where the goal was “to provide food, clothing, shelter and the love of Christ for orphaned children.” Tough times followed and their needs were great. And, after the name was changed in 1958 from orphanage to Louisiana
Methodist Children’s Home, their goals remained the same. Americans are known for their open hearts and open check-books when they see a legitimate need. Particularly during these holiday seasons, giving to those less fortunate is at its highest peak. This is an excellent time to take a tour of LBCH and LMCH as part of your Christmas plans. And, if you missed the Fall Food Round-up hosted by Baptist churches throughout the state, take this opportunity to donate food and household products needed for the homes. Or, take part in the Angel Tree or Wish List programs designed to provide each child with Christmas
gifts. At the heart of these institutions, solid commitments of following the teachings of Christ are deeply entrenched so how better to embody the spirit of Christmas than to take part in their missions? “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ ” Matthew 25:40 Elaine Marze is a freelance writer who also works in public relations and advertising. She can be reached at elmarz7@yahoo.com.
Gift Ideas for Children’s Homes Clothing • T-Shirts (teen appropriate), adult small through xxx • Pajamas, adult s-xxx • House slippers, s-xxl • Shoes (All shoes MUST be NEW), all sizes • Baseball caps/hats all sizes games • Handheld video (Fishing, Sports, etc) • Lite Brite • Simon or Simon 2 • Mancala • 20 Questions • Croquet • Badminton • Scattegories
• toys • Remote control vehicles (please include batteries) • Hot Wheels • Motorcycles • Monster Trucks • Collectible Cars • Legos (no large preschool size) • Kites • Larger stuffed animals sports • Footballs, basketballs, kickballs • Softball, Baseball Glove and Balls • Roller Blades • Fishing Poles and Tackle
individual items • Bags, tote duffel, backpacks, and sleepover size • Sleeping bags (boy or girl) • Watches, sports & casual (boy or girl) • Disposable cameras • Baseball or softball glove with ball (adult size) • Photo albums • Bath and body products • Journals and colored gel pens
boy’s items • Wallets • Belts (jr-adult sizes) • Boxers (adult sizes) • Baseball hats • NFL/NBA Sweatshirts or Throws • Car washing kits or accessories girl’s items • Shampoo & conditioner • Blow Dryer, Flat Iron, Curling Iron • Hairbrush, combs, hair accessories (clips, barrettes, ponytails) • Jewerly (teen style bracelets, necklace, earrings)
~ Clothing and personal hygiene items should be new. ~ 8
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November /December 2010