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Missions and Community Outreach Work
The Blankets of Hope Ministry started with two people that wanted to bless the lives of individuals who were undergoing treatment for substance abuse. Many volunteers stepped forward to help create blankets that were handmade and bathed in prayer. The blankets were delivered to the residents of Valley Hope, a substance abuse treatment facility here in Grapevine. The facility has 68 residents at any given time, ranging in age from 18 to 80.
The turnover of new residents at Valley Hope is so great that there is a never-ending need in order to continue to make more “blankets of hope.” Presently, our greatest need is that of fleece fabric. We ask for pieces no smaller than 58-60 inches (the standard width of the fabric) by 36 inches (it’s important for the recipients that the blankets are of consistent size), and each blanket consists of two layers: one layer of solid fabric and one layer of print. But we also have a variety of other needs. While some donate fabric, others sew, some cut fringe, some take part in every step and everyone prays for the recipient as they do their part. The time commitment is up to you.
If you would like more information or if you desire to be a part of this ministry, please contact the church office (817-481-2559). Fleece donations can be dropped off at the office from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays as well as Sunday morning, during worship hours.
Blankets of Hope Ministry News
 We have delivered two waves of prayer blankets to Valley Hope Addiction Treatment Center! The response to this ministry has been phenomenal! One of the “angels” that helped deliver blankets recently shared his experience: “Some cried, including me, some looked confused and asked, ‘There’s someone out there that doesn’t even know me, and cares this much about me!?’ All were extremely grateful to receive such a gift and some seemed just happy to get a hug! God is good! I am very blessed!”
We have distributed a blanket to each patient (67) and in return we have received many hugs, thank you’s and questions. The most common question was: “Why would anyone do this for us?” Many people couldn’t believe that someone would make a prayer blanket for a person they had never met. One young man actually had tears in his eyes as he walked away with his blanket.
I have to say, the response to our gift of blankets was much more than I expected. I feel like I walked away having received much more than I gave. This wouldn’t have been possible without your contributions. I want to thank all of you that have donated time, fabric and funds to this ministry, and a special thank you to Jan Parrett, lay leader, who has shown a tremendous energy and compassion for this ministry. It has been amazing to see the results of your contributions, and I look forward to continuing to work with all of you.
Thank you and God bless,
Cheri Rutledge
(If you are interested in this ministry, please contact Cheri at cherir@fumcg.org.)
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Blankets of Hope