First, I want to share with you a recognition we received last week. It reads as follows:

“Heifer International gratefully recognizes Lakeview United Methodist Church for   faithfully serving the Lord in words and actions and for sharing their gifts to end world hunger and poverty. This congregation has richly blessed families in need with gifts of livestock and agricultural training to help families become self-reliant.” It then closed with this verse from Proverbs 19:17 “He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward him for what he has done”. It was then signed by Beth Kimrey, Director of Faith Communities – dated July, 2023. I think you deserve to give yourself a hand.

Let’s review our activity of last month. July – we started with a bank balance of $900.00, made deposits of $585.00, donations of $590.00 – leaving an ending balance of $4.00.

Basket collection last month was $82.77. Thank you. Donations made last month were   14 Flocks of Chicks – 5 Flocks of Ducks – 3 Flocks of Geese and 3 Hope Baskets. Matching funds added to our giving produced 29 Flocks of Chicks – 10 Flocks of Ducks – 5 Flocks of Geese and 5 Hope Baskets plus 1 Heifer.

August is the last month of “Flock Sale #3”. At this point, we are 1 Flock behind what was donated during Flock Sale #2. Thus far we have counted 188 Flocks serving 188 Families. Let’s do the math, “Passing the Gift” brings the total to 376. 9 X the impact tells us our gifts thus far, can potentially impact the lives of 1,692 families. And we still have August.

September 1 will bring a new program to our Heifer Project. It’s too early to give any    details.

Then, this week another communication from Heifer International – I quote “We are  reaching out to extend our sincerest gratitude for your recent donation last month. Your continued generosity is truly transforming the lives of so many. Keep in mind, that together we have the power over hunger and poverty.” This was signed – “With Gratitude”, Taylor     Brannen – Heifer International.

In closing, I want to personally thank each one of you for your continued support. We are truly “CHANGING LIVES”, AMEN! YES – EVEN SAVING SOME.