The Angels of Mercy---A Humbling Experience

I was talking to Carolyn McCracken over at The Angels of Mercy, which is a thrift store and food bank in Clermont, Florida. While I was there, two people came in that were in need of food. You hear on the news all the time about unemployment, homelessness, etc...but until it stares you right in the face, you have no idea.

While talking to Ms. McCracken, she said that food donations have been low this year and they haven't been able to help as many people as she would have liked. When I asked her how many The Angels of Mercy have helped in 2009, she gave me a sheet of paper...the numbers were eye popping. 3500+ individuals and 1000+ families have been helped in 2009. When I asked her what her range was, she said that she only services Clermont, Minneola, Montverde and Ferndale. I couldn't believe it, 3500+ people just in our small town? I had no idea that so many people needed help in this area.

Right then and there, I made a corporate decision: As long as Davis Signature Realty LLC is in business, we will be a supporter of The Angels of Mercy. We make money in this community, it is only right that we give back to this community as well.

How can you help out? Next time you are at the grocery store, buy and extra can of beans, vegetables, fruit cocktail...whatever you can spare. Give me a call and we will make arrangements to pick it up from you. Here are some items Ms. McCracken said the food bank could use:

• Tuna Fish/Salmon
• Canned meats
• Soups
• Canned Fruit/Fruit Cocktail
• Boxes of Mac & Cheese
• Any canned vegetables
• Cereal
• Oatmeal
• Grits
• Rice

When people come in needing food, The Angels of Mercy try to give them 2 grocery bags full that will be at least 3 days worth of meals. Of course, everybody who comes wanting food doesn't get it. You have to fill out an application and only those who need the most receive.

Remember, at any time, any of us could be asking The Angels of Mercy for some food.