a story of hope.

The homeless men often gather around courthouses. I do not know why. I think it is because the shelters and skid rows are so close to them. Anyway, as I was walking into court in downtown LA, I passed at least a half dozen men just sitting along the sidewalk watching life go by. I approached one of them with a bag of hope and asked him, “Do you want this?” and he smiled and said, “Yes, thank you, sir.” He called me ‘sir.’ He was so polite. -- Steve Shepard -- 9/30/09

a story of hope.

I took a shortcut around the back of Bella Terra to avoid the Starbuck’s crowd when I spotted a woman sitting on a curb in the Macaroni Grill parking lot. I see her regularly at the off-ramp to the 405 South. She was perplexed when I stopped. I rolled down the window and asked, “Can I give you some help?” and held up the bag for her to see. A smile came across her face and she said, “I love those things!” When she took the bag, she said, “God bless you!” -- Steve Shepard 9/30/09

thanks!

Today, my Dad and Bari, gave me toothbrushes and toothpaste to put inside the bags I've made! I wasn't able to financially provide that in the set of bags originally, but with their graciousness they have helped by fulfilling that donation!

Thank you so much!!

First dose of hope.

Today, Daniel and I were on our way back from The Getty Villa in Malibu, and as we exited the freeway off the 605-South, on Studebaker, there was a man with a sign that "Homeless, please help".
Immediately, I said, "Daniel, give him a bag!" (Fortunately, I had brought one to put in his car). Daniel rolled down the window and waved him over. The man came over. Saw the bag Daniel handed to him, and said, "Thanks! I really appreciate it!"

I didn't get to see him open the bag, or read the included note. But regardless, it was exciting helping someone out today!

what is a bag of hope?

While driving the other day, I was stopped at a red light, after frantically scanning my car to find something to give the homeless man standing next to my car, I managed to gather a couple dollars in change from my coin bag in my car. But, I wanted to give him something that I know would help him, because I care. I’ve always had a heart for the homeless, and can’t help but want to help those who are less fortunate than I am.

Living and playing in Long Beach and Seal Beach, the number of homeless people you see continues to grow. Which is really sad to see, and I always want to help.

With some inspiration from someone else’s idea, I’ve developed this program called “A Bag of Hope”.

I went to the store and bought Hefty seal bags (gallon size), water bottles, and a different assortment of snacks. I’ve also created a letter to include in each bag, that says that Jesus loves them, and that he will always love you, no matter what state you are in. It will also have the information for a local food bank, and shelter (eventually in the bag, I would like to include a toothbrush, toothpaste, hand wipes, etc.)

The bags are intended to be kept in your car, and when you come across someone on the side of the road, you can give them a bag with a smile, knowing that you are giving something that provides nutrition, and hope. And if the opportunity arises you can be a witness to them, of God’s love and compassion, as well as a friendly smile. 
I am willing to continue to do this program, out of my own pocket, and provide bags to those who would like to participate. But if friends/family would like to participate, donate, or have bags for their own, I will accept donations of $3.00/each. (which I think  is the average people would give to a homeless people if they have change).  All the proceeds or earnings from selling the bags, would go towards making more bags, and getting better items and more items.

If you have any interest in being involved in a bag of hope, please contact me directly at katie.shepard1 at gmail dot com.

As bags are given out, I will continue to update this blog with pictures, results, testimony. If you chose to participate and want to comment, please feel free, i encourage that.

Thank you for taking the time to read about this program. Please continue to pray for A BAG OF HOPE.