the REFUGE

Dear Friends, Supporters, and the Curious,

Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday’s to Everyone. I trust that the business of season has not caused us to lose focus and what it is all about. Consumerism too often suffocates the true meaning of this time. A time when Peace on Earth and Good will toward all people can be lost.
As I reflect on this time of year, I often spend time with my children trying to instill in them a sense of what it is all about. Recently, we watched the film, ” A Christmas Carol” based on the novel by Dickens. During the film, which is one of my personal holiday favorites, there is a scene where representatives of a charity ask the main characted, Scrooge, if he would contribute to their charity and he states that he must be about his business of making money and tells them to go about their business. They then state that humanity is their business. As I reflect on that and what the Christian tradition teaches about Wealth and poverty and the meaning of this season, as well as what other faith traditions teach about Greed and power, I am reminded of the fact that all of us should be about the “business” of humanity. That we should be concerned those struggling to make it. That their struggle is our struggle.
It is with that in mind, that I must be candid with you about both myself and the ministry of the Refuge. We are really struggling to make it. We have recently lost 2 donors due to the Economy. Their combined gifts amount $725 per month. This has really hurt us! We have greatly appreciated their support. And, they have expressed sincere regret at having to stop supporting us. Both of them have supported us since the begining of the Refuge, more than 16 years ago. We have truly appreciated their support. And, of course, in addition to all that, we continue to more families and individuals coming to us that are in great need. Let me just share you some of the current needs.
First of all, thanks to everyone who responded to the call for help. We were able to serve about 200 homeless on Thanksgiving. We were also able to help 32 families with complete Thanksgiving dinners. In addition, we were able to help several pay their bills, including some medication for some. Thanks for you help.
However, many families we could not help. We hope and pray that support will come in for the Christmas Season. We help anyone regardless of Race, Creed, Ethnicity, religion or no belief, marital status, or sexual orientation. At this time we have some various serious need. We need to raise about $700 to help with 3 different electric bills for 3 families. THey are facing shut off in next few days. Additional, an older gentleman, who has physical limitations is going to lose his auto insurance and it is the only way he can get to appointments. We need $100 for that.
Lastly, the Refuge is in desperate need of nonperishable food items, gift cards, a lap top and a minivan, as well as blankets for out street outreach to the homeless and for our food pantry. If you can help in any way with any of this or support us in an ongoing way, please email me at bgcwright @aol.com or go to www.refugestpete.org for paypal. Checks can be sent to the Refuge 1818 29th Ave. North, St. Petersburg, Florida33713

Sincerely, Rev. Bruce Wright MA, DMin., CPAC, MAC

PS. From a personal note. These loses in financial support have taken their toll personally. My own ability to support my family is in jeopardy. I am having a hard time making bills and at this point I am what is called “couch homeless”. Please consider supporting us with special gifts and with regular monthly support. Any amount of support helps. No gift is too small. Thank you and God bless.