Nebraska Chapter Helped When a Local Family Faced Homelessness

When a dad in Tecumseh, NE, lost his job last year, a cascade of misfortune followed. Soon, he and his family were homeless and sleeping in a local park.

Leaders of Nebraska Chapter 29 found out, and they knew something had to be done. Money was raised and food, socks, toiletries, and clothes were purchased for the family.

“We didn’t solve their problems,” said Chapter Secretary Christy Hodges, “but we eased their financial burdens enough to give them hope.”

Hope became resolve — and members of the family found jobs, helping them get back on their feet.

“It feels nice that they didn’t give up,” Hodges said. “Us showing them that we cared, I think, helped give them a glimpse that everything would be OK.”

Helping Bridge the Gap

Other area families in financial distress got a boost from Chapter 29, too, when the chapter donated $5,000 to the Nebraska City Ministerial Association Energy Program.

“It’s a way for us to help momentarily in case someone loses a job, or money is short until their next paycheck at a new job,” Hodges said. “Since there could be a month gap between paychecks, the Ministerial Association Energy Program is there to bridge that gap.”

Small Actions, Big Impacts

Both actions spotlight the chapter’s drive to show how small efforts can make a big difference.

“I think if all chapters do a little bit, then we can have a bigger impact,” Hodges said. “I see us as a little chapter, but we really focus on doing what we can with what we have. There’s a bigger impact when you look at all of the chapters and what they do.

“Little efforts really turn into big impacts.”

That’s the philosophy Chapter 29 will follow the rest of the year.

“Every year, our goal is to be a Five-Star chapter,” Hodges said, “but not with just the intent of completing it. We want to make a visible impact, too.

Find a chapter near you at WoodmenLife.org/Find/Chapter

Not a member yet? Find a Representative near you at WoodmenLife.org/Find/Rep

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