known to man and make every dollar stretch as far as it could.  Those of you who have children and have been through something similar know the desperation that I felt. I would always make sure I had enough for diapers, formula, and apple juice since apple juice was my son’s favorite drink at the time. For a while all that my husband and I had to eat was rice and beans.  It was during this time that many miracles came to us: Money was left at our door step, a lady in the grocery store who just happens to not need her coupon for baby formula, and many other seemingly coincidental acts of kindness.  Looking back, it still amazes me that the coupon given to me was for the only formula my daughter would take.  Our church had a food closet and they helped support us by giving food.  It was this experience that started me looking at the world around me and realizing that there are many of us who are just a paycheck away from the tough times my family and I went through and thus my deep passion for others began.

The First Story Of Hope

As I look at my family now, I have now been married almost 13 years with three beautiful children; ten, nine, and six and who have brought my husband and I much joy, I still remember the difficult times that we have come through. These memories have fueled me with such a passion for others in the same situation. But, I never realized what I could do about anyone's troubles since I am just one person. One day I was at the grocery store making one of my quick, weekly trips while the kids where in school. I came face to face with an all too familiar situation. As I was standing in the checkout line, I noticed in front of me a mother with two precious boys, one hand full of coupons and some cash in the other hand. As I watched the woman in line I realized that she was trying to determine if she had enough money to pay for all that was in her cart. When the checker gave her the final total, she realized that there simply was not enough money. At that moment, with a line of people behind her, she had to decide what would have to go back. Quickly deciding, she looked down at her two boys and told them that on this trip they would not be able to get their new toothbrushes--one a Spiderman, which, at the time, was my son’s favorite super hero, and the other the Incredible Hulk. As she told them they would have to wait again, my heart just dropped to the floor. I looked at the two boys and said, “Of course you will be getting those toothbrushes.” Their mom didn’t want me to purchase them but I would not let her talk me out of the blessing of seeing those precious boys with grins that now lit up the whole store. After much protest, she finally let me purchase them. It was a great day! As I walked to the car, I knew I was called to do something for others in similar situations. When I got back to the office I informed my husband that we were going to start an organization that would help others in financial need. That was the first Gift of Hope and what inspired me to start Vessel Hope.

Everyone knows people around them that are struggling financially, I have been there and maybe in the past so have you. I hope Vessel Hope encourages you to send someone you know an anonymous Gift of Hope... Not a Hand Out but a Helping Hand Up. Join me in the cause... together we can change the world with one anonymous act of kindness at a time. Send Someone The Gift Of Hope Now!

Best,
Desiree Summers