Day 16 #Light The World: I Was Naked and Ye Clothed Me

 Day 16 #LightTheWorld gives us opportunities to give to those in need.

Along with things like food and shelter, clothing is a basic need. It covers us and can keep us warm. We can share with people to help them get the items they need.

People who live on the streets in Australia often need the very basics to help make their lives a little brighter.

Young men and young women between the ages 14 to 18 from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Richmond, New South Wales, assembled personal and practical items into backpacks to donate to individuals in the local area who are in need.

The youth brainstormed and came up with the idea to put together rough sleep (homeless) packs to the people within their boundaries. Under the direction of the leaders, the youth set out to raise the funds themselves through a series of paid projects and the spring fair.

This allowed them to raise sufficient funds to purchase all the items for the packs.

When they collectively put the packs together there was a strong spirit and excitement in the air as they realised they were helping their fellowmen.

 It was a sobering experience for the youth and leaders alike as they presented the packs to the less fortunate. At the same time the experience was a unique and rewarding.

They met a young man, who was only 20 years old who lived permanently alone in his car. He was truly touched by the gesture from the youth. He acknowledged he is a Christian and reads the Bible regularly, but hasn't attended Church for a long time. The youth took the opportunity and extended him an invitation to meet with them.

Another man carried his earthly possessions in the front basket of his push bike. He shared that he normally arrives later in the day but felt prompted to arrive earlier the day they were there. He asked if they were the reason why he received this prompting.

Bishop Chris Foster of Richmond Ward (Congregation) said, “when the youth collectively put the packs together there was a strong spirit and excitement in the air to help their fellowmen. It was a sobering but also an uplifting experience for the youth and leaders alike as we presented the care backpacks to the less fortunate. At the same time the experience was unique and rewarding."

The care packs were received with much gratitude. The thoughtfulness, effort and love the youth showed filled all with the lasting memories of joy that come from knowing we are looking after all sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father.

Jesus taught: I was naked and ye clothed me Mathew 25:36  How will you #LightTheWorld today? For suggestions visit Mormon.org and view video below.