The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends. 21 It is a sin to despise one’s neighbor, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy. (Proverbs 14:20-21, NIV) Friends, “I’m not sure how they let themselves get in that position in the first place.” If we haven’t all said it out loud, we’ve probably all thought it at some point about someone. I know I have. The Lord has been graciously working on my heart to respond with mercy instead of judgment, but it’s been a long process. Part of that change has come from seeing just how many people truly need help — and how deeply grateful they are when someone simply listens, sees them, and cares. These verses struck me today because sometimes what hurts even more than hardship is loneliness. Worse than feeling like the world is stacked against you is feeling invisible. For many of the people we serve, poverty isn’t just about money. It’s a cycle that is incredibly hard to break. The mom who doesn’t have transportation can’t hope to get a job without a bus pass. The dad trying to provide can’t work without childcare in place. The payday loan that fills empty bellies tonight comes back next month with crushing interest, digging the hole deeper. Our goal is simple: to see people as people. To serve them as dearly loved children of God. To make sure they know they are seen and valued. Breaking cycles of poverty also breaks cycles of loneliness and shame. A moment of kindness restores dignity. It builds trust. And sometimes, it opens the door to an entirely new future. Thank you for being the kind of community that moves toward people instead of away from them.  CELEBRATIONS!!! Ms C – Food help for two sisters and their combined 8 kiddos. Ms J – Help with an AES bill so there aren’t disconnect threats. Blessings, Elizabeth Kilby

" Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galatians 6:9, NIV) Dear Friends, As followers of Christ, we are called to be His hands and feet, reaching out to those in need with love, compassion, and generosity. Whether through small acts of kindness or larger gestures of service, every opportunity to help others is a chance to reflect God's love. Sometimes, we may feel that our efforts are insignificant, but even the smallest act - an encouraging word, a helping hand, or a listening ear - can be used by God in powerful ways. He calls us to be faithful in whatever way we can, trusting that He will multiply our efforts for His glory. At Harvest Youth Ministries, this is at the heart of what we do through all of our various ministry outlets. We believe that serving others is not just an action but a lifestyle that demonstrates the love of Christ. Whether it's through providing practical help, offering a shoulder to lean on, or simply being present for someone who is struggling, we embrace every opportunity to make a difference. But our work doesn't stop at meeting physical needs - we also seek to pray for people and share the gospel whenever God opens the door. True help is not just in what we can do for others, but in pointing them to the One who can truly transform their lives. As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This is literally the verse that inspired me when we founded this organization. Let us continue to walk in faith, always looking for ways to bless those around us and bring the hope of Christ into their lives. As Jesus says in Matthew 5:16, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." May we always be ready to serve, pray, and share the good news, trusting that God will use us to make an eternal impact for His kingdom. As always, thank YOU for the part you plan in providing financial help, or just rooting us on in the heavenly realm! Blessings in Christ, Pastor Jim Kilby