Like many in our community I grew up in an unstable environment. I was loved as a child but my single mom struggled to make her paychecks stretch far enough to meet our family’s needs. Her battle with alcohol made matters worse, leading to many chaotic experiences. If not for the kindness of people in the small town of my upbringing, my life would have been a lot more traumatic than it was.  

On Friday, December 8th I took a tour of La Puente with Lance Cheslock, Israel Garcia and Amy Scavezze. I was impressed at how much is being accomplished and how many people are being served. As they showed me all the different aspects of their work (Emergency Shelter, Food Bank, Garden Initiative, Adelante, the various Social Enterprises, Rethreads Clothing, and Outreach), I couldn’t help but think back to my childhood. Where would I be if not for the mercy and compassion of those who helped my mom?  

So this Christmas I want to thank all those who serve and volunteer at La Puente, as well as those who give financially to this great organization. I’m proud to live in a community that cares about its neighbors and seeks to treat all people with dignity and respect.

Sincerely,
Jeron Parkins