In July and August the Portage Resale Shop was able to bless about 100 families with about $13,500 worth of direct in-kind assistance. We are so thankful for those who donate to make this possible, and for those who shop with us. Our sales help offset our overhead so we are able to be a blessing to many in need. During our special day of blessing, we were able to give away about $3800 worth of back to school clothing and other essentials to families in need. We did ask that anyone who was able to pay, to pay what they could afford. It was a wonderful success that we will be repeating perhaps twice a year. We also asked for assistance financially from the local churches in Portage and are so blessed that 3 stepped up and offered support. 
As the economy continues to struggle, individuals all over are struggling. Because of the increased stress over money and other factors, we were given the opportunity to help at least 4 families fleeing domestic abuse situations, a woman who had taken in a homeless pregnant teen ager, a very enterprising 10 year old trying to mow lawns to earn enough to move his family out of a homeless shelter, the list goes on and on. People who have never had to ask for help before have been in getting essentials and other items. We continue to see increased need and are trying to fill in as best we can.
Remember as the weather gets cooler that we are always accepting coats, hats and mittens to be given away this winter. Last year we were able to visit around 5 different trailer parks to give away the gift of warmth. This year we are seeking at least 5 churches to partner with us in giving the coats away. We have the coats, the truck, and the racks, but need people to go door to door inviting people to come get a coat if they are in need. Another project we helped start was “Soles Bless Souls” with Project Northwest Indiana.
Soles bless souls shoe project is going to be finalized by the middle of September. We will are going to be donating 100 brand new shoes given to us at a discounted price from New Balance. These shoes will be given to children deemed deserving by the Boys and Girls Club of Porter County.
We are looking for people to help in two different ways.
1. We are looking for 20 organizations, churches, or individuals donate $50. This money is tax deductible. The check needs to be made out to the Portage Resale Shop. We need to collect this money by September 13th.
2. We are looking for some volunteers to help bring the shoes at the end of the month. If you are interested let us know so we can give you the exact date.
Thank you for being part of this project. 100 kids are going to be able to go through the school year with new, warm, and the right size shoe.