From the Group VBS newsletter...it was already discussed in another post under "Prayers" but I think it belongs here where it will be seen by more people. There is a WalMart & Dillon's (Kroger/King Sooper grocery) nearby if you want to send gift cards. Check out Justin's other post http://forums.group.com/Topic11526-46-2.aspx for contact info.A Look At...
Greensburg, Kansas
The clocks still hanging on the school's shattered walls all say 9:45, the time at night when a tornado hit Greensburg on May 4, 2007. Greensburg is a wonderful, small community, mostly made up of farmers and the elderly. It's also made up of caring and compassionate people who are willing to help each other.
An example is how we came together to start cleaning up the devastated town. The schools are gone. Over 95% of the homes are gone. All the businesses are gone or closed down. But the city WILL be rebuilt.
Warm hearts, friendly smiles, and the willingness to help is what makes Greensburg stand out.
Unlike many small towns, Greensburg also had many churches, most of which were destroyed. One church, the Lighthouse Worship Center, continues to assemble each Sunday under a tent raised next to the rubble which once was the church building.
For the Lighthouse Worship Center, outreach and ministry continue. Plans are under way to provide family fun nights, youth events, and children events—including VBS. Unfortunately, laceName w:st="on">Lighthouse Worship Center laceName>lost all of their VBS materials in the tornado.
You can help.
Group Publishing has offered to provide all the basics (Avalanche Ranch Starter Kit, crafts, student books, buddies, etc.), but the need for VBS support is still great. Over 500 children from Greensburg and the surrounding communities are expected to attend.
Please send your leftover VBS items like set decorations, publicity materials, crafts, student books, or any un-used materials. From yarn and glue to posters and banners, all items are needed.
Greensburg also needs your prayers. Prayers for the residents as they rebuild their community, and prayers as they continue to heal from this tragedy.
School will go on in Greensburg next year. Youth activities and sporting events are still going strong. At one time Greensburg was best known as home fo the World's Largest Hand-Dug Well. Then, in a flash, it become synonymous with tragedy. Now it will be remembered for something else: as a place where hope and God's love brought renewal out of the rubble.