NAM Connection

The Season of Giving is Upon Us and...

2009-11-02T11:04:00.003-06:00

Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) has a great need for volunteers to coordinate its holiday projects, sort toys or food, and for donations of food and toys or other gifts for children and teens.

NAM expects to serve 800 families in November and 1,000 families in December. The main Thanksgiving distribution date is November 21st from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. for Thanksgiving turkeys and food. The last day for people needing Thanksgiving food to apply is November 13th. The holiday gift and food main distribution dates are December 19th and 21st from 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. The last day for people to apply for holiday gifts and food is December 11th. To apply for either distribution, call the Assistance appointment line at 281-583-5600 at 9:00 a.m. Monday-Friday.

We are appreciative that many congregations, corporations, and individuals are pulling together to provide much needed cash donations, food, or toys and gifts.

To donate online by credit card, please go to http://mail.namonline.org/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.namonline.org/ and click on “Special Projects” and select either “Holiday Food Drive” or “Holiday Toy Drive.” To hold a food or toy drive or to volunteer at NAM, contact Linda Fullerton at 281-885-4609 or at lfullerton@namonline.org.

Community Steps Up for NAM

2009-11-01T08:21:00.005-06:00

Northwest Assistance Ministries’ (NAM) 11th annual Jeans & Jewels Gala was held the evening of Saturday, October 24, at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott. Over 500 guests were in attendance.

Among those present were Gala honorees Jackie and Pat Riley, Gala co-chairs Dana Hines and Diane Porter, and major sponsors Ultra Petroleum Corporation, Valerie and John vonBerg, Linda and Joe Fowler, Citation Oil and Gas, Linda and Harlan Martens, Jackie and Pat Riley, and Joanne and Mike Watford.

The evening began with a cocktail hour, featuring a signature turquoise cosmopolitan created and donated by Grey Goose Vodka. Guests enjoyed drinks, appetizers, and a silent auction and Big Boards.

The program was emceed by Deborah Duncan of Great Day Houston and included presentations to the gala honorees and co-chairs, a video of NAM’s services, and an invocation led by NAM President & CEO Carole Little.

The live auction, led by auctioneer Judge Eric Andell, began as guests enjoyed their desserts. The live auction featured: two round trip, first class tickets on Continental to any of their worldwide destinations; an 11 x 15 Persian rug; a luxury suite for 18 at Reliant Stadium for the Texans vs. Titans game; a handmade quilt; and sponsorship of NAM”s Interfaith Hospitality Network. After dinner, guests danced to the sounds of Yvonne Washington & The Mix.

The event grossed over $430,000 for NAM’s programs and services.

NAM is a nonprofit, community-based social service agency that is supported by 43 congregations, 18 Service Partner organizations and more than 160 businesses Community Partners.

NAM Legislative Breakfast

2009-09-08T08:26:00.001-05:00

Approximately 150 community members gathered on August 27th for an informative Legislative Breakfast. Panelists were (left to right): State Rep. Debbie Riddle, State Rep. Allen Fletcher, Constable Ron Hickman, City Councilman Ron Green, State Rep. Sylvester Turner, District Attorney Pat Lykos, State Rep. Patricia Harless, State Rep. John Zerwas, City Councilman Jarvis Johnson, and Sheriff Adrian Garcia. NAM Executive Board Chair Tom Forestier (right) served as moderator.

Community, public officials gather for NAM Legislative Breakfast
On Thursday, September 2nd, Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) hosted its second annual Legislative Breakfast. The informative community event featured a panel of ten public officials from both sides of the aisle. Panelists were: State Rep. Sylvester Turner, State Rep. John Zerwas, State Rep. Debbie Riddle, State Rep. Patricia Harless, State Rep. Allen Fletcher, Harris County District Attorney Patricia Lykos, Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia, Harris County Constable Ron Hickman, City Council Member Jarvis Johnson, and City Council Member Ronald Green.

NAM Executive Board Chair Tom Forestier served as moderator. NAM President & CEO Carole Little welcomed the audience, and thanked the panelists and event sponsors. NAM Executive Board member and Public Policy Committee Chair Rev. Ginny Brown Daniel provided the invocation. Questions were posed to the panelists on the following topics: Children's Healthcare, Energy Assistance, Domestic Violence, Healthcare Reform and the Federal Stimulus Package’s impact on Harris County.

A continental breakfast was served prior to the program, and tours of NAM were offered afterwards. Event underwriters and sponsors included: Starbucks, Chick Fil A, HEB, TXU Energy, The Woodlands Waterway Marriott, The Harris County Sheriffs Department, and an anonymous donor.

NAM’s Public Policy Strategy Committee was established in 2007 to help formulate public policies that support and enhance the organization’s mission of Neighbors Helping Neighbors. The Committee serves as a voice for NAM clients and the community by collaborating with legislators, remaining informed of legislative issues, and being a resource on social issues.

Area Ministries Work Together to Level the Playing Field for Area Children

2009-08-10T08:32:00.002-05:00

For any child, it can be daunting to face all of the challenges that come with a new school year, but for children who don't have the necessary supplies the experience is bound to be especially difficult. Houston's area ministries know that, which is why they work to help parents provide the necessary supplies and clothing to ensure area children start the school year off right. This year, many area ministries collaborated to help even more children with the aid of Nourish America, a nonprofit organization based in Ojai, California, that partners with organizations across the country to provide impoverished American children, families, pregnant moms, seniors, and others in need with the nutritional supplements and essentials required to lead productive, successful lives.

This year, with help from Nourish America, Northwest Assistance Ministries received almost 7,000 back packs from the Office Depot Foundation and a year’s supply of organic children's vitamins from New Chapter Organics.

Photo: Teresa Jackson (left) and DeAnna Bosch of Emergency Aid Coalition collect back-to-school supplies, backpacks and vitamins from Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) to distribute to children in their organizations. The vitamins were donated by New Chapter Organics and the backpacks were donated by Office Depot. NAM will distribute supplies to 3,500 children as part of its Back-to-School Program this year, and the extra donated items will be shared among other ministries collecting school items for children. Backpacks and vitamins were also received by Stonebridge Church in Magnolia, Humble Area Assistance Ministries, Katy Christian Ministries, Memorial Assistance Ministries, Spring ISD and Klein ISD.

Modified Donation Acceptance Policy

2009-03-18T09:09:00.004-05:00

As many of you may be aware, the government passed the Consumer Product Safety Act that went into effect February 10, 2009 prohibiting the selling or reselling of clothes and toys for children 12 and under if they contain more than a specified percentage of lead or a plastic additive called phthalates.

We have just become aware of a fairly affordable testing solution for lead and phthalates. Because of this new option, NAM will begin conducting business as usual regarding the acceptance of ALL donated goods.

Once we have the testing equipment in place, you will once again see children's items for sale in our shops. I have also received calls from volunteers concerned about the NAM's ability to distribute books in our Children's Clinic and throughout the ministry. NAM has received a certificate of safety from the manufacturer which will allow us to continue to distribute new books to children.

We thank you for your patience and support as we continue to work through this process.

Carole

New Law Poses Challenges for NAM

2009-02-19T07:03:00.001-06:00

February was a time of change for NAM, as you may have noticed if you’ve visited any of our three resale shops recently. As a community organization, we pride ourselves on striving to serve the basic human needs of our neighbors at all stages of life, from infants to seniors. However, new regulations for the sale and distribution of children’s items have presented us with a challenge in meeting some of the needs of children in our community.

On Feb 10, 2009, new requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act took effect, prohibiting the selling or reselling of clothes and toys for children 12 and under if they contain more than a specified percentage of lead or a plastic additive called phthalates.

There has been much confusion surrounding the new law and its application to resale stores, but the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has clearly stated that although resellers are exempt from testing and certifying children’s merchandise, they will still be held liable for any merchandise they sell that contains the contaminants.

We do our best to ensure that NAM is in compliance with all federal and state regulations, and so we have chosen to discontinue the sale and distribution of merchandise for children 12 and under in our resale shops as well as our programs.

We know NAM and our supporters care about the safety of our children. In fact, many of our programs work to ensure the security, health and well-being of children on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, although this law was passed with good intentions, it seems like it has been interpreted quite broadly. Some services that NAM once provided for families and children will no longer be available. Not only are we no longer able to provide low-cost children’s clothing, books, toys and furniture at our resale shops, we also are unable to give some of these items to children through our programs. Many families in dire need have counted on NAM’s assistance in providing free items, such as clothing and baby furniture, for their children. For years, NAM has been able to offer these essentials thanks to support from neighbors helping neighbors.

In recent years, up to 10% of NAM’s resale shop revenue has come from the sale of children’s merchandise. Last year, this translated into approximately $170,000. Revenue from the stores goes toward helping community members in need through our multiple social services programs.

Although many resale shops like NAM’s throughout the country are hoping for a reprieve on these strict regulations, it seems unlikely that any clear changes will be made in the near future.

We intend to keep you informed of any changes that arise in the law, but for now, we are considering creative and efficient ways to continue to serve our youngest neighbors in need.
We are now emphasizing the need for more furniture donations to our resale shops to replace the lost revenue from children’s merchandise. In terms of program necessities, our future focus may be on the donation of gift cards, rather than merchandise, to fulfill the needs of our clients.

These new regulations have presented a considerable challenge to NAM, but with the continued support of our donors, volunteers and community supporters, it is a challenge that we will face with the type of determination that has made NAM so effective as a community resource for more than 26 years.

If you are concerned about the impact of the new federal regulations, please contact your legislators or visit www.congress.org.

For further information or updates, please check the Consumer Safety Product Commission's Web site at www.cpsc.gov.

Thank you for your continued support,

Carole Little

New Law Will Impact NAM Resale Shops

2009-01-08T21:14:00.003-06:00

On February 10, 2009, new federal regulations will go into effect that prohibit the reselling of children's clothing or toys for children 12 and under unless they are tested for lead and a plastic additive called phthalates. You may have seen TV news reports or newspaper articles about these regulations. Testing can cost anywhere from $35,000 - $50,000. The broad scope of the complicated law and it’s interpretation by the Consumer Product Safety Commission ("CPSC") could effectively make it illegal for parents to resell their children’s clothing and gear at a garage sale, on eBay, Craig’s List, or through consignment stores or annual children’s consignment sales. If donated to a nonprofit like Goodwill or Salvation Army, those organizations can’t legally resell it as of February 10th. Hand-me-down clothing for kids ages 12 and under will be illegal to resell. It will be a banned hazardous product. The fines of $100,000, potential jail time and label as a felon for violations are stiff.

On Tuesday, the CPSC tentatively exempted the following: items with lead parts that a child cannot access; clothing, toys and other goods made of natural materials such as cotton, silk, wool and wood; and electronics that are impossible to make without lead. That still leaves clothes made from polyester or other non-cotton materials and toys made from plastic needing to be tested or thrown out. It also means that only clothes without embellishments – zippers, snaps, buttons, tags – qualify.

It appears unlikely that a solution will be found before the law goes into effect on February 10. At best, there may only be a temporary pause on the sale of many items.

NAM cares for the well being of our clients and plan to be in full compliance with any regulations that are set.

Please feel free to contact me or Dale Leatherman at dleatherman@namonline.org should you have any questions.

Carole Little

What Do You and Bill Gates Have in Common?

2008-12-09T13:38:00.002-06:00

What Do You and Bill Gates Have In Common?
Why do some people have what looks like “it ALL”? You all have 24 hours in a day and 168 hours each week. Are you spending your time wisely?

A Scenario:
If you sleep a healthy 8 hours a night you have 112 left.

If you take 30 minutes a day for breakfast and an hour each for lunch and dinner you now have 94.5 left

If you drive 30 minutes to and from work, you now have 89.5 left.

If you work 45 hours a week you have 44.5 left in your week to take care of yourself, your family, your health and your spirit.

The problem is not the amount of time. The problem is what we are doing with it. If you spend from 8pm to 10pm watching TV, you now have just 30 hours left. What could you have done with those precious hours? How much of your day and week is being spent on things that help you grow and make a difference: in your business, in your relationships, with your significant other or children, in knowledge, in fun, in health or in spirit?

Who are you spending your time with? Are they people that are supportive and energizing, or do you feel drained at the end of your time with them? Are they people you are striving to emulate and can bring out your best?

Allow yourself blocks of uninterrupted time to accomplish projects. Stop being at the mercy of E-mail, telephone and people that do not value your time. Think of the times you have been preparing for a vacation. Suddenly you get serious about your time. You become super productive. Do that every day and you will give Bill a run for the money!

Our time is the one commodity of which we each get a fixed amount. We do not even know exactly what that fixed amount is. It makes sense to use it with wisdom, joy, and for our own growth as well as for those around us. To Life!

CHALLENGE: Look at where you spend your time and evaluate if it is truly being well spent on what you consider priorities for your life. Make one change that will take back time from the mundane and help you grow where you believe it will truly count! Consider giving just two hours a month to deliver Meals on Wheels or volunteer 4 hours a week in the NAM Food Pantry.

“You will never find time for anything. If you want time, you must make it.”

–Charles Roberts Buxton

Will you make time to volunteer at NAM?

Collaborative Partners Are Key at NAM

2008-11-01T06:15:00.003-05:00

Northwest Assistance Ministries (NAM) has a variety of programs and services that focus on assisting people with basic needs however once people's basic needs are met, the focus must shift to addressing what created the need.

In order to create a more integrated service model at NAM to move individuals from crisis to independence, NAM works with a number of collaborative partners. Three of those partners, Spring ISD, Lonestar College and the Willowbrook Rotary combine their efforts with NAM to assist individuals with English as a Second Language classes, GED, Computer classes and Citizenship classes. Learning English and getting a high school diploma is key to be able to provide a better life for a family. To read more about how lives are being changed, click on
http://www.hcnonline.com/articles/2008/10/30/spring_observer/news/43sonamadulted.txt

2008 Jeans & Jewels Raises over $460,000 for NAM!

2008-10-23T15:41:00.005-05:00

All,

I want to send a Texas size thank you to Nita Bedford & Susan Diehl, this years J&J Co-chairs and to all involved for all the hard work and support of this years J&J! Thanks to those of you who purchased tables, brought new donors, donated auction items, sold raffle tickets and purchased auction items at the event itself. The money raised through table sales and raffle tickets comes in during June - September when donations are typically down and helps us feed the kids that are not getting free breakfast and lunch when school is out for the summer.

Through your generous support, NAM raised $460,000 (gross) as of Monday which is phenomenal since we budgeted $464K (gross). Expenses are budgeted at 100K and we should come in under so all in all, given these uncertain times, we are extremely please with the results. Once again, thank you to those who supported us this year with the event. You make the difference!

A heartfelt thanks,
Carole Little

Put Out The Call and They Will Come!

2008-09-30T08:32:00.003-05:00

The truly inspiring piece about being a part of NAM is to see the community rally to help itself all year long but in this particular instance, what is even more inspirational is when people who are struggling themselves put their own needs aside to come to the aid of their neighbors.

At first they came one at a time and before we knew it, we had delivered more than 7,000 meals to the elderly and disabled population and almost 4,000 individuals rec'd disaster relief assistance in the form of food, vouchers, water, cleaning kits and financial assistance.

In the first few days, following Ike, it seemed we had lost our strength - the connection to our congregations and volunteers, but within a few days we were back in full swing as volunteers came from all over along with donations of food and cash to help those coming in the front door seeking assistance.

From all of us here at NAM to the community who supports and assists us in the work of neighbors helping neighbors - a heartfelt thank you!

Lights Are On!!!!

2008-09-25T19:37:00.008-05:00

Power was restored to the main building on Kuykendahl this afternoon! It will take a good 24 hours to get everything functional again so we'll be back in the saddle on Monday for sure.

There are many, many people I wish to thank for advocating for NAM during the last few weeks to assist us in getting the power turned back on but the people that really stand out are State Rep. Patricia Harless, State Rep. Debbie Riddle, and Congressman Ted Poe.

State Rep. Patricia Harless is a tireless advocate for NAM and deserves a huge

THANK YOU for personally calling me several times a day, everyday to check

on the status of NAM. Thank you for advocating for NAM with the County and City of Houston, thank you for caring about all the people we serve and working tirelessly to make sure we have what we need to do help those in need. The last time I spoke to you today to inform you that we finally had power - I found you going door to door in the neighborhoods checking with those who still did not have power to take photos to send to Centerpoint Energy! What an amazing individual you are and how lucky District 150 is to have you representing them.

State Representative Debbie Riddle organized seven tractor trailers of meal replacement drinks, water, nutrition bars and vitamins along with a shipment of fruit snacks to assist the families coming to NAM for help when FEMA was no longer in our area and 70% of the community was still without power. Rep. Riddle's staff personally came to NAM to check on us and assist us when our generator was failing and we were in danger of losing the refrigerated food we had just procured.

Congressman Ted Poe's office worked diligently to procure 2 semi tractor trailers of much needed ice and chose to coordinate with NAM to assist all those in our area that were seeking ice when it was so hard to find.

Houston is extremely lucky to have such dedicated, community leaders who truly care about the Districts they represent and serve.

Click Here To See How NAM Could Use Your Help

2008-09-25T05:32:00.004-05:00

President of the Tomball Rotary, Mayor Gretchen Feagan presents a check fo $1,000.00 to Ceo, Carole Little, at their September 24 meeting to assist NAM.

Since Wednesday, September 17, 2008 NAM volunteers and staff have:

Delivered 6500 meals to the seniors and disabled population of Northwest Harris County

Assisted more than 3,000 individuals with Food, cleaning supplies, information and referral

Continued to provide food, shelter, case management and hope to families housed in NAM Interfaith Hospitality Network.

As a response to the growing number of sick, uninsured children needing access to free or reduced cost healthcare - NAM's Children's Clinic has set up temporary quarters at 4635 FM1960. Appointments for sick visits only are the priority at this time. Appointments may be made at the temporary location by calling 713-500-3267.

Both Shops have Power!

2008-09-23T20:28:00.004-05:00

The Jones Road store and the FM1960 store are up and running, fully stocked and judging by the crowds the last few days, filled with lots of bargains. Remember, your purchases help your neighbors, so if you haven't come by the stores lately, come on in - there are lots of treasures to be uncovered.

All donations are gratefully accepted at our main building located at 15555 Kuykendahl Road. Need us to pick up? Call the donation hot line at:281-880-9482.

Due to the rising temperatures and the main building still without power, our client services end at 2:30. We need help in the Kuykendahl Building with the following:

Volunteers are still needed to help with unloading deliveries in the Food Pantry, stocking shelves and making food bags. The pantry opens at 8:00 a.m. Volunteers are needed to work in the lobby to assist with hurricane relief at 8:30 a.m. and Meals on Wheels drivers are needed to deliver FEMA boxes Wednesday and Friday. Come anytime from 9:00 a.m. - 11:30.

Volunteers are needed help sort and process donations at the 3645 FM1960 shop beginning at 8:30 everyday.

Email us at nampresident@gmail.com

Volunteers Make All The Difference!

2008-09-23T05:57:00.004-05:00

Disasters are stressful times for all of us but the up side is that it brings out the best in the community. This past week, as thousands of families turn to NAM for assistance, we were fortunate to receive calls from both Rep. Patricia Harless & Rep. Debbie Riddle who have worked diligently to bring much needed supplies to those who continue to struggle to feed their families without power. They were able to procure six tractor trailers filled with meal replacement drinks, vitamin water, nutrition bars from Nourish America among many other wonderful things they have done to assist the community and NAM.

The logistics of unloading, stocking and distributing this fabulous gift required some spur of the moment planning. In the midst of our management huddle, one of our NAM volunteers, SJ Lewis, called to see how she could help. I told her NAM needed lots of volunteers to assist with the shipments that were coming in this week. Not only did SJ agree to volunteer, within two hours a fork lift arrived to assist us in unloading the hundreds of pallets of supplies!

Families continue to pour through our doors looking for relief, food, information and assistance on how to get back on their feet and with your help, we will continue to be there with or without power.

While both the FM1960 store and the Jones Road store have had power restored, NAM's main building remains without power. The generator has begun to malfunction causing the phone system to fail. We have forwarded the main line to an answering system to keep the community informed of daily activities and needs. That number is 281.885.4555.

NAM needs volunteers to help in the food pantry, deliver Meals on Wheels, the shops and to assist families coming to NAM for food, information and referral.

The need for food and cash donations to assist NAM are gratefully received as daily the challenges continue to grow. To volunteer, show up at the times and locations previously listed in the blog. Donations can be made securely through NAM's website or mailed to 15555 Kuykendahl Road, Houston, TX 77090 c/o NAM President.

On behalf of NAM and the community we serve, I wish to thank all of our local, State and Federal representatives that have worked tirelessly to restore normalcy to our community by advocating for Houstonians day and night. Hat's off to all of NAM's volunteers and donors - we can't do it without you! Finally, to my staff who find themselves doing jobs they never thought they'd be doing - thank you for your tireless efforts, flexibility and hard work.

Together, you make a huge difference in the lives of those struggling!
If you wish to get involved, email me at nampresident@gmail.com or simply come to NAM between the hours of 9 - 2:30 when we are distributing food and information. We sure could use your help.

NAM's Food Pantry Running Low

2008-09-21T06:25:00.002-05:00

NAM's food pantry is running low and we need your help to serve those who will be coming to us over the next several weeks. Any and all donations are greatly appreciated however the following items are in short supply:

Pop top food items

Shelf stable food

Pasta

Spaghetti sauce

Soup

Ramen noodles

Peanut butter

Jelly

Canned meat

Rice

Pinto beans

Mac n cheese

Canned veggies (corn and green beans)

Baby food

Diapers

Formula

Email & Phone Down but Still Hard at Work

2008-09-19T17:35:00.011-05:00

Even without power, NAM continues to serve our community with your continued support. Volunteers are delivering meals to our seniors, working in the food pantry and helping us process donations in our Resale Shop. If you wish to help:
Go to the FM1960, Houston, TX 77090. Shop at 9:00 a.m. each day to help process donations Monday - Saturday. Help unload trucks and sort food donations in NAM's Food Pantry located at 15555 Kuykendahl, Houston, TX at 8:30 M - F.

Sharon Record, R.N.P. & Shelley Rosales, R.N., remove
stitches from a child who was injured by flying debris
during the storm.
To deliver meals, arrive at the rear of the main facility located at 15555 Kuykendahl Road between 9:30 and 10:00 to help unload truck, pack coolers and deliver meals to our neighbors in need.

Donations of food are gratefully accepted at 15555 Kuykendahl Road (rear of the building). Donations of furniture and clothing are gratefully accepted at 3645 FM 1960W.

Cash donations are always appreciated. Donate at http://www.namonline.org/ or mail donations to NAM President/CEO, 15555 Kuykendahl Road, Houston, TX 77090.

NAM's Email and phones are currently down. Please contact us via nampresident@gmail.com and we will respond as quickly as possible.

NAM Needs Volunteers To Deliver Meals and Distribute Food

2008-09-19T17:35:00.003-05:00

NAM will be distributing food beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, September 22, 2008. All personnel that are regularly scheduled to work on Monday need to return to work at their regularly scheduled time.

NAM needs volunteers to help in the food pantry, to sort clothes in the Resale Shop and to deliver Meals on Wheels.

A heartfelt thanks to Rep. Debbie Riddle's office in conjunction with Rep. Patricia Harless's office who are working in conjunction with Nourish America and NAM. We will be distributing meal replacement drinks, nutritional bars and Centrum vitamins generously donated by Nourish America next week along with a number of other nutritional food items. We wish to thank our State Representatives on behalf of the community we serve, for all their hard work in procuring much needed supplies for their District.

NAM will accept donations at the main building at 15555 Kuykendahl Monday through Friday, 8:00 - 5:00 PM. Cash donations may be also be securely made on line via www.namonline.org. Saturday donations are gratefully accepted at the NAM Resale Shop located at 3645 FM.1960 (across from Wal-Mart).

We are expecting five semi tractor trailers with food donations from Nourish American over the next seven days. We will need to mobilize lots of volunteers on short notice to assist with unloading the donations. Please check back each morning and evening for updates if you wish to volunteer this weekend.

Many thanks!
Carole

Ways You Can Help

2008-09-18T15:29:00.002-05:00

NAM is currently operating out of our 3645 FM1960 location due to power outages at the main building. Cash donations can be made on line at www.namonline.org, via phone or by mail to 15555 Kuykendahl Road, Houston, TX 77090. We are accepting donations of food & clothing at the 1960 location.

Volunteers are needed to sort clothing at the 1960 shop and to deliver meals on wheels out of our 15555 Kuykendahl Road location. For those wishing to deliver meals, call 281-885-4622.

Hours of operation for volunteering at the store are 10 - 6 Monday through Friday and 10 - 4 Saturdays. Meals on Wheels deliveries are from 11 - 1 daily.

Ice Distribution from Noon until 5:00 P.M.

2008-09-17T22:19:00.002-05:00

Northwest Assistance Ministries will be distributing bags of ice tomorrow at 3645 FM1960W location @ Walters Road, Houston, TX 77069 from noon until 5:00 p.m.

Thanks in advance,
Carole Little
President/CEO
Northwest Assistance Ministries

3645 FM 1960 NAM Resale Power Restored

2008-09-17T16:06:00.005-05:00

All,

Today the power was restored to the FM1960 store located in the old Wal-Mart at Walters Road. We have a skeleton crew cleaning up the water that blew in from Ike and working hard to get the store ready for business. We will be open for regular business hours tomorrow.

We are working with State Representative Patricia Harless's office to establish a POD site at our 1960 and Walter's Road location. We rec'd a call from Judge Ed Emmit's office today and they are evaluating our location at this time. So please keep checking back as we will need plenty of hands to help with distribution should we be chosen.

In addition, I rec'd a call from Congressman Ted Poe's office and they are working with a vendor in Louisiana who has a load of ice for us to distribute. We are still waiting to receive confirmation from the vendor that the shipment is on the way.

The main building and the Jones Road store are still without power and there is clean up going on due to water damage from the storm. The building amazingly sustained no glass damage!

I know that many of you are wanting to volunteer and help your neighbors and we could use your help at the 1960 store and in Meals on Wheels to deliver shelf stable meals to the at-risk senior population that we serve. Please E-mail me at nampresident@gmail.com if you wish to deliver meals.

We appreciate your patience and understanding while we work to fully restore NAM so we can get back to doing what we do best - helping our neighbors in need.

Carole

Post Ike Update

2008-09-15T07:42:00.003-05:00

All,

My hope is that this note finds you and your loved ones well. Many of you,
most likely, will not be able to view this due to continued power outages however this update is being posted in the event that some of you may have Internet access.

To my knowledge, all three NAM locations at this hour are still without
power. The facilities have not sustained any damage. Although some of our NAM staff
have sustained damage to their homes due to falling trees and most remain without
power, no one is injured. Many evacuated as they resided in low lying areas.

Most are involved in the clean up efforts in their neighborhoods which,
as you know, will take a few more days. For those staff that have been able to access
the main building, the trip to the building posed major traffic challenges and was
fraught with road hazards to the extent that the decision has been made to follow
Spring ISD's lead to remain closed until Wednesday. NAM's capacity to assist
neighbors in need is only as great as the capacity of the community in which we
reside and right now our community is struggling so we will leave the disaster relief
effort to the Red Cross and FEMA who are in a much better position at this point
than NAM is until Wednesday.

The Final Stretch

2008-08-24T10:35:00.003-05:00

Since January, NAM has seen a 17% increase in the number of new families seeking relief from high food and gas prices. This year, NAM is receiving calls from companies that have supported us in the past, asking us to assist their employees who are struggling to make ends meet.

We have also seen a number of individuals, businesses, foundations and community groups step up to assist NAM's staff, volunteers and Congregations address the increased need. Even with all this additional support, NAM has still made it through the year with one arm tied behind its back, due to the unprecedented delays in getting our stores open. The delays in opening and lack of signage has created a loss in projected revenues of $349,000 coupled with unforeseen capital expenditures created by new building code requirements that did not exist when we began the expansion process.

The Jones Road store has finally received approval (6 months in the making) from the architectural control committee where the store resides,to purchase signage according to their exact specifications. Customers have been hard pressed to find the store with no signage.

Despite the challenges, the NAM Board and staff have worked diligently to offset the lost revenues. As we head down the final stretch of the fiscal year at NAM we feel reasonably certain that we will end the year in a deficit position of approximately $160,000.

At this time of unprecedented need, I wish to make a direct appeal to all our supporters that are contemplating an annual contribution to please do so now. Your immediate action will enable NAM to continue service at current levels.

There are a number of opportunities to provide support either through the Major Giving Campaign that is underway, by becoming a sponsor or supporter of our upcoming Jeans & Jewels gala to be held October 18, 2008 at the Marriott Waterway Hotel in The Woodlands or by pledging monthly to support all our programs and service. Be a part of the solution, make your secure donation now at www.namonline.org. If you help, we change lives for the better.

Thank you!
Carole Little

P.S. A gift of $1000 will provide a hot meal to more than 400 seniors. NAM currently delivers meals to more than 500 individuals each day to 21 zip codes in northwest Harris County.

A Fuel Surcharge for Families in Need?

2008-08-01T13:50:00.008-05:00

Consumers on a daily basis, seem to be feeling the overwhelming effects of the high price of energy these days. The sticker shock at the grocery store, the pump, the increased cost of public transportation, the high cost of electricity and home heating fuel. Every time I get a bill now I'm looking for the dreaded FUEL SURCHARGE.

Many businesses, if they want to stay in business, choose to pass on the additional burden to the consumer, including those in need. What do nonprofits like NAM do in times like these? NAM has already exceeded budgeted food costs this year due to the increased demand for food by area families seeking to stretch their shrinking buying power. Each month, our numbers have increased by more than 17% while food and cash donations have not kept pace. We see no end in sight as we continue to get calls from companies that have supported us in the past asking how we can help help their employees who are struggling to make ends meet.

Our energy costs here at NAM have increased significantly higher than we budgeted along with much of our operational costs such as insurance, maintenance, etc. Charitable organizations, unlike their for profit counterparts, cannot add an energy surcharge to the goods and services they provide to those in need in order to stay in business. Moreover, the impact on our employees has been significant as they struggle to figure out how to make the same paycheck cover the increased costs being passed on to them.

Doing business in this economy is challenging at best and the old way of doing business must change for everyone, including nonprofits like NAM. NAM has always been a cutting edge organization that prides itself on being a good steward of the support it receives from the community. As a socially responsible organization, we must continually strive to find more efficient, effective ways of providing much needed services to our community.

A recent review of our operations revealed that by scheduling the forty hour work week over four days versus five days, then closing the facility to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays would yield a potential $150,000+ in annual savings while providing much needed relief to our employees who would only be reducing their work related expenses by 20 per cent.

By extending our work day, we could provide early morning and early evening services to many who previously struggled to leave work to keep an appointment or didn't want to pull their children out of school for a well child check up while more fully utilizing our facility which is open from 6:30 a.m. - 10:00 P.M. daily.

While no decision has been made as of yet,we have the support of the Executive Board and staff. Many of our congregations have been extremely supportive as well since they too see the need for NAM to find new ways to serve in this challenging economic climate.

We will continue to seek input and feedback from the community and hope to announce our decision by the end of this month.

Stay tuned,
Carole

Are You In...

2008-07-22T14:38:00.002-05:00

The Present ?

I read a wonderful book the other day by Ekhart Tolle , entitled " The Power Of Now ". In about 90 minutes I was reminded of what is most helpful for me to gain power from the moment, learn from what has past and create a sense of peace for my future, that has compelled me to share this with you.

The Present: The Gift that Makes You Happy and Successful at Work and in Life, by Spencer Johnson is a little gem with simple wisdom that can make a big difference!

In our lives today we have a tendency to be so full of what to do, when to do it, how to do it and with whom to do it and what is next to do…that we often spend little or no real time in and enjoying the present. If you want to remember what it was like to truly enjoy the present, think back to a time when you were a kid outside playing or perhaps working on a project. I remember hot summer evenings playing “hide n seek” in our neighborhood with about 8-10 kids of all ages. If you were “IT” it was pretty tough, you had to decide to get away from home base long enough to find people to tag them, but you also risked others getting in free, and you being “IT” again. The adrenalin of winning and maybe losing was pumping for everybody. There was a sense of camaraderie, the creativity of finding a great place to hide, your heart beating palpably while running in to home base trying not to get caught, the laughter and joy. I remember it well and always with a smile!

“Being In The Present Means Tuning Out Distractions, And Paying Attention To What Is Important, Now. You Create Your Own Present By What You Give Your Attention To.” --- Spencer Johnson

When we truly focus on what we are doing now, we can accomplish so much more and usually with greater skill and efficiency. We can enjoy the process of our task as well as the accomplishment. If you also choose to focus on what is right with the project or challenge, it fosters a positive attitude and a sense of aptitude so any problems seem smaller and more easily surmounted. The present is where creativity, laughter and connectivity, and peace reside. The present is also sometimes a painful place. “Pain is the difference between what is and what you want it to be.” Even pain changes, and as it does, we can begin to create a new present, to build on and learn from what we have experienced.

If we choose to live and learn in the present we can begin to fashion our vision of a wonderful future and take steps to create it. We can build our worlds with focus and joy. Let go of what "she said or he said", stop dwelling on what you cannot change. You only have control over you and whether you choose to enjoy this very moment or carry around baggage or worry about the future. Each one of us, then, will touch the world in a more encompassing manner. Enjoy the gifts the present holds: with your work, your family your friends and yourself. Enjoy each and every day, hour and moment!

Carole Little