Regional Divisions
Indiana Spring 2009 Activity Report
The volunteers of the Indiana Division of Orphan Grain Train find themselves serving those in need closer to home these days as they reach out to those severely impacted by the distressed economy.
Eugene Wint, Division chairman, reports that the local unemployment rate has reached 15%—almost double the national average. The automotive manufacturing industry in Indiana has been particularly hard-hit.
“We are receiving more and more requests for all types of items to help families put their lives together,” he said. More than 20 charitable and service organizations that help people in legitimate need make referrals to the Division. Semi-loads of clothing and other items have gone to various locations within 300 miles of the warehouse located in Azalea in southern Indiana.
“We are looking for a source of food to supply local food banks,” said Wint. “The demand for food has doubled in the past six months,” he added.
The Division continues to provide furniture, appliances, kitchenware and various items to those who have repaired and remodeled their homes damaged by the flood in central Indiana last year. Wint explained that the Division has a close working relationship with the Columbus, Ind., office of the Red Cross, which presented the Division with one of 15 plaques given out in grateful appreciation for its service during the June 2008 flood.
As soon as funds allow, the Division will ship a container to Cambodia where Rev. Chuck Groth is serving on the mission field. The container is being sponsored by the Indiana District of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod office in Fort Wayne. Several congregations contributed to its contents. Another semi load was recently sent to the Appalachian Mission of the Methodist Church in Beverly, Kentucky.
“God continues to offer us opportunities to serve our fellow man,” Wint concluded. “Our prayer is that He will continue to lead, guide and direct our work to fulfill our mission.”
“If a person having material possessions sees his brother in need, and does not share with him, where is the love of God in him?” (I John 3 v.17).