From The Desk of Kathy Jenkins: Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays! - December 2023
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
I always look forward to receiving Christmas cards and letters from family and friends this time of year, sharing good news, gratitude, and reflections on a year gone by. The sentiments expressed during the holidays are often some of the most meaningful things I hear or read all year, so in that spirit, I’d like to share some of the best sentiments of good news, gratitude, and reflections that I’ve heard from our clients this year:
“It’s been an incredible journey. Before I started I didn’t think I’d make it. I was in a completely hopeless state of mind and body. I was just completely bereft spiritually… there was nothing there… Now, I want to go out and help everybody. It’s amazing once that clarity of thought starts to permeate, what you believe that you can accomplish.” - Eddy, former Men’s Shelter client
“I didn’t get what I asked for, but I got what I needed… I’m so thankful for that bed… I’m thankful for the things that were given to us while we were there… I’m thankful for the detergent to wash my clothes… Even on the days I didn’t wanna be here, I’m so thankful for this place because I didn’t know what we were going to do.” - Monica, former Family Shelter client
“I can’t think of a better way to rebuild yourself. This place is wonderful. It’s just, you don’t have to worry while you’re trying to get yourself better… It was a lot easier to work on myself and learn different ways to cope.” - Lisa, former Women’s Shelter client
Your support in 2023 has made all of this good news possible (and so much more!). Because of you, hundreds of clients like Eddy, Monica, and Lisa were able to end their homelessness, poverty, or addiction and take a new direction in life. And with your continued support, I can’t wait to see how our efforts to provide shelter, meals, basic needs, and resources helps even more.
Most of all, I look forward to sharing more stories, sentiments, and gratitude with you, from those whose lives will be changed in 2024. Thank you for the hope that you make possible at New Directions!
With Gratitude,
Kathy Jenkins, CEO
PS - To date (12/26), we’ve raised $158,356 in our year-end fundraising efforts! With the largest week of giving upon us, if you have yet to make a year-end gift, please do so now at www.helpnewdirections.org/give or mail a check to our address below. Thank you for your support!
Mailing Address:
New Directions of Horry County
P.O. Box 2922, Myrtle Beach, SC 29578