Friday, November 7

One Week Can Really Make a Difference

Last Friday many woke up to learn about the fire at Three Trees. That seems like so long ago, yet in some ways it’s like yesterday. A lot has changed since then thanks to the outpouring of support and prayers of so many people. To you, we say thank you.

On Thursday, we prepared to actually start a new group with eleven families. When we arrived at the office the manuals we give to each family were ready and waiting. Thanks to Liz, our wonderful office volunteer, we were ready to start a new group. And, thanks to Liz’s daughter Colleen and her dance team friends, we have materials ready for our lunch next week.

Eddie, our computer guy, set up our new computer (and free printer.) He still has some work to do, but boy it sure was nice to get into our electronic records. Soon all three of us (Jeri, Jacqui and Wendy) will have access to our Three Trees email. That will be a happy day!

Today we also made contact with Mark Stump of United Way’s GIV program. (If you’re not familiar with this, it’s a warehouse full of donations from area businesses of items they no longer need that non-profits can have. Typical items include tables, chairs, office supplies, file cabinets, house ware type items, etc. ) They have some item we might be able to use as we rebuild and hopefully they’ll receive more things we can use in the coming weeks. Right now we have selected a couple nice wooden desks, a wooden credenza, two wooden tables, a couple file cabinets and some desk chairs. Thanks to Mark for being so understanding and helpful.

As of yet, the 800 building is still closed to the other tenants. Brian, the owner, informs me that after more inspections he’s had to remove all the insulation in the ceiling and replace all the ceiling tiles. He also learned the building must be inspected by a structural engineer and the electricity hasn’t been turned on yet either. Three Trees is waiting on estimates from contractors specializing in fire cleaning. Hopefully we’ll have those soon.

Please continue forwarding these updates to those you know are interested. Thanks for your prayers and support.