From The Commanding Officers

Beginning of 2010

Dear Friends,

     It has been a while since we have updated this page. The latter portion of 2009 kept us extremely busy. To recap briefly last year's blessings, we are including some new photos and giving you a snapshot of the additions to our calendar:

     September - The American Rescue Workers participated in the Stark County Fair, distributing hundreds of items daily and meeting many who are familiar with our work and introducing ourselves to many others who did not know us; the La Vallas added a new granddaughter to their family, Ava Rose Fischer was born in Williamsport, PA on September 26.

     October - The Stark County Homeless Services Collaborative and their Planning Committee, both of which the American Rescue Workers serve on, received nominations for new officers for the Homeless Services Collaborative. Another grandchild was added to the La Valla family: Caleb Joseph Nicholas Wood was born in Rutland, VT on October 26.

     November - The Homeless Services Collaborative elected Captain Deborah La Valla as co-secretary of the group along with Betty Bellamy of the YWCA; a new president and vice-president were also elected; the sheltered men celebrated both Veterans' Day and Thanksgiving Day with some special activities in the community; solicitation letters went out to generate revenue for the shelters and programs.

     December - General Claude Astin had his second knee replacement surgery; Captain Deborah La Valla turned celebrated her 50th birthday; the sheltered men enjoyed many festivities of the holiday season, culminating with a lovely dinner and gift-giving event from various community entities and individuals; The Hope Shelter received one-year funding through a grant with the state.

     All of these items were in addition to the day-to-day tasks and additional national responsibilities we handle. Add to those items our family and friends, and you can understand how busy we have been. However, it is now 2010, and we are meeting it with some new structure, new vision and new attitudes for accomplishing much. Even though our warehouse was broken into several times in 2009 and we were robbed, the warehouse flooring is not repaired yet, and there are other items throughout the Canton corps that need to be addressed, repaired, restructured, and so on, we press on with enthusiasm. As the song says, "Because He lives, I can face tomorrow."

     We are anticipating getting a new oven and new flooring for The Hope Shelter this spring. The roof to our office will be repaired then as well. There are many other areas in the shelters, warehouse and church that we want to repair and revamp, so we will be seeking volunteer help for those tasks when the weather gets warmer. Yes, Captain Victor has determined that this will be "the Year of Accountability," and we want to be accountable with all the resources that God has provided. Won't you join with us as we work to make 2010 our best year for the Lord yet!

Thanks for your prayers and support - may God bless you!

The Captains