Testimonials
Where You Can Feel Like It's a Second Home" by AP
You have helped me and my mom Dawn. We are so thankful to have a place like this in our community. You give so many amazing things like books, food, clothes, hygiene items and so much more. Everyone who volunteers there is so nice and friendly. They also listen to you, and joke around too. Plus help you if you need anything. I love everything you do for us and so many more people in this town. Thank you so much for being an amazing place. Where you can feel like it's a second home to you. Thank you so much and God Bless everyone who volunteers. (02/08/2023)
You have helped me and my mom Dawn. We are so thankful to have a place like this in our community. You give so many amazing things like books, food, clothes, hygiene items and so much more. Everyone who volunteers there is so nice and friendly. They also listen to you, and joke around too. Plus help you if you need anything. I love everything you do for us and so many more people in this town. Thank you so much for being an amazing place. Where you can feel like it's a second home to you. Thank you so much and God Bless everyone who volunteers. (02/08/2023)
The Buchanan Chronicle helped bring in a donation to RAM Redbud Area Ministries (our local food pantry here in Buchanan) this week and Jan Walters was pretty excited about it! If you ever get a chance to talk with her, you will leave with a smile on your face. Don’t forget to still donate when you can to RAM even when it gets warmer and not just in the cold months.
“I don’t have all that much myself,
but I have enough”
I suppose there was a time when he was a taller man, but not anymore. This lil fella was small, bent over, shuffled as he walked and, was quite soft spoken. He held his head with a slight tilt to the left presumably some arthritis. His request this day was a curious one, and one I will never forget.
It was nearing Christmas time, and this delightful gentleman came our office seeking help to make happen a special gift for his two adult children. That’s where our conversation started. Here’s how it went.
‘Bob’ shared that he wanted to gift his adult children with something different, ‘meaningful’. “They already have everything they need, and they have their own families now. But I want them to get something from me that shows them what’s REALLY important; it isn’t ‘stuff’. It should be about making a difference. "Ya see,“ he continued on to say, “I’m old enough to have finally learned that, but they are still young. I don’t want them to wait until they get as old as me to figure that out. “ He paused, as if reminiscing in his own history for a minute, then continued, “They are great kids but I want them to understand how good their lives are, that others are hurting.” Bob explained that “I don’t have all that much myself, but I have enough – enough to be able to help. So when I saw your little add in The Paper, detailing what items you were in need of for your pantry, I decided to get one of everything,…. from me,…. for my kids,…to give to Redbud Area Ministries.” Again, he paused and his eyes misted over. I felt like if I had spoken in this moment, I would have robbed us both of something very precious. His last words hung in the air like precious perfume oil used on Christ’s feet by Mary Magdalene. Finally, Bob spoke, asking me if I would construct a letter to each of his children, telling them of their Father’s gift. He was contented to sit still in my office for the few moments it took me to write them. Once drafted, I read the crafted letters for his approval. At first, he said I could just write something and send it on to the kids without his oversight. But I persisted because the letters were THE gift to his children. I wanted Bob’s heart to hear the letter, to make sure it was what he wanted his gift to be.
A beautiful gift from the Father to his Children; Bob has no way of knowing what a gift HE was into OUR hearts the day he visited. A perfect picture of how much our Heavenly Father loves His children. And what a privilege to be a part of Bob’s journey with his children.
Jan Nowak Walters
Executive Director
Redbud Area Ministries
Buchanan, Mi
Added 2/25/2021
It was nearing Christmas time, and this delightful gentleman came our office seeking help to make happen a special gift for his two adult children. That’s where our conversation started. Here’s how it went.
‘Bob’ shared that he wanted to gift his adult children with something different, ‘meaningful’. “They already have everything they need, and they have their own families now. But I want them to get something from me that shows them what’s REALLY important; it isn’t ‘stuff’. It should be about making a difference. "Ya see,“ he continued on to say, “I’m old enough to have finally learned that, but they are still young. I don’t want them to wait until they get as old as me to figure that out. “ He paused, as if reminiscing in his own history for a minute, then continued, “They are great kids but I want them to understand how good their lives are, that others are hurting.” Bob explained that “I don’t have all that much myself, but I have enough – enough to be able to help. So when I saw your little add in The Paper, detailing what items you were in need of for your pantry, I decided to get one of everything,…. from me,…. for my kids,…to give to Redbud Area Ministries.” Again, he paused and his eyes misted over. I felt like if I had spoken in this moment, I would have robbed us both of something very precious. His last words hung in the air like precious perfume oil used on Christ’s feet by Mary Magdalene. Finally, Bob spoke, asking me if I would construct a letter to each of his children, telling them of their Father’s gift. He was contented to sit still in my office for the few moments it took me to write them. Once drafted, I read the crafted letters for his approval. At first, he said I could just write something and send it on to the kids without his oversight. But I persisted because the letters were THE gift to his children. I wanted Bob’s heart to hear the letter, to make sure it was what he wanted his gift to be.
A beautiful gift from the Father to his Children; Bob has no way of knowing what a gift HE was into OUR hearts the day he visited. A perfect picture of how much our Heavenly Father loves His children. And what a privilege to be a part of Bob’s journey with his children.
Jan Nowak Walters
Executive Director
Redbud Area Ministries
Buchanan, Mi
Added 2/25/2021
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Volunteers shares his experience serving guests at RAM:
I have served at this wonderful ministry for several years. I see the compassion and mercy that comes directly from God. I have always believed that "service to the needy is the best work in life" This ministry led by Jan Nowak, certainly does it well. I'm very proud and Blessed to be a server at this Godly place. Love and Blessings To All Jerry Seals (1/27/2023) |
A.P. shares thoughts about the RAM experience:
I'd like to express my gratitude for the Redbud Area Ministries, its management, workers and volunteers. This place is of great help to people in need like me. It is very well organized and run by it's management. There is a good supply of foods, books and clothing. Everything is always very tidy. The ladies who work there are very kind and cheerful. As a result, I leave this place every time well supplied and in good spirits. With blessings, A.P. (1/21/2023) |
This is a love letter, to RAM, written by one of our guests…….RAM was introduced to me by my grandmother when I first moved back to Buchanan in 2020. We were just starting out with a new apartment and only my fiancé’ at the time was working. He made literally just enough to pay our rent and pay bills. We had next to nothing saved and times quickly became harder when we opened our home to a struggling friend who ended up suffering a drug addiction and stealing what little we had all to often.
It was at this time that I began to grow closer to the Lord and I can remember reading a passage that said that there was no greater joy in life than for man to enjoy his work eat and drink. Everything else is meaningless. I also came across a passage that promised that the Lord's blessing would be upon the food of those who worship him. This hit home for me as I have been told in the past to specifically worship. It was the one time I heard God's audible voice. I decided to put him to the test so to speak. I had my initial embarrassment about showing up at a food pantry and actually finding myself in need however after seeking the Lord I do believe that even in that there is much purpose and 'behind the scenes' work going on. He is faithful to work not just some but all things out for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purposes. Needless to say that initial embarrassment was met instantly and dissipated by a force of love- pure love as I entered that building. it was more than just kindness. It was that sort of feeling that you get in the presence of the Lord. I had only experienced such love in my life while actually being in a spirit-filled church. It was beautiful and resonated with my spirit. I knew then and there that God was in the midst and that his hand was at work and upon this ministry. That was all I needed to know. The Lord has used RAM to show me Biblical principles and promises fulfilled. He has also enabled me to share in that work as I helped a few friends who were struggling themselves and in need of a peaceful place to feel God's love. My home was allowed to be a place of peace for a few boys who ultimately needed LOVE most. The love of God. Fulfilling a basic need such as a meal can bring down barriers and settle someone so that they are in a more approachable and receiving position to receive from the Lord. I would not have been able to make it at times without RAM. That is hard to say but the Lord has dealt with those issues and is bringing me into am place of financial stability finally. I am only humbled and left in awe at the presence of God within this place and the spirit of God constantly flowing through the many servant-hearted men and women helping to make this ministry run efficiently. RAM needs your continued support. This ministry facilitates the love of God ultimately and that is in fact the very essence of God and the greatest gift. Its simple in my eyes- support RAM and you are without a doubt directly supporting a move of God in this community. K.S. Added 2/11/21 |
Thank you for making Christmas special for our family.Hi Jan,
I would like to thank you again for all of your kindness you and your team has put towards our community! My experience at the Christmas Toys & Distribution Program was very good. I received a lot more gifts than I expected, including food! I couldn't believe how generous, caring, and helpful everyone was. I wasn't very excited about Christmas until now. This program has taken so much stress off the holiday season! Thank you for allowing us to give our children a magical and exciting Christmas! Love, L C Added 2/11/21 |
Galahad and Elf Stephoth our us in the front office were impressed with, and, more than a bit taken back by the extraordinary maturity of this very young dad that came into Redbud Area Ministries, so much so that we commented to each other about him. We were refreshed at his overt devotion to his family, his grit for doing whatever he must to take care of and provide for his wife and little daughter Emma. But even more, it was his warm, gregarious nature that practically beguiled us. In fact, every time he mentioned his daughter, his face literally lit up with joy! Such a treasure to see this in a young dad. His wife was waiting in the car, for she was struggling with having to seek help.
This delightful young man, with a messy mop of curled blonde hair was seeking grocery assistance for the first time at RAM. His exuberance for life was a complete breath of fresh air for all of us that interacted with him that day. Despite his current situation he was upbeat, pleasant and quite engaging,… admittedly not what we generally encounter. We were blessed to meet him. (I’ll call him Galahad.) We shared with Galahad all the option for toiletries and personal care items, as well as offered all available pantry items. This pleasant cherub told us he was delighted with the service he received, as well as all the grocery support. But before we could let him depart, we made sure he signed up for our Christmas Gift & Toy Distribution program, which was coming up in a few weeks. After all, we had to make sure that he could make Christmas morning merry and bright for Emma. Soon came the day of distribution and Galahad kept his appointed time to shop. He was guided through our “Toy & Gift” areas by one of the many volunteer RAM Elves working that day. I checked in on him and we chatted a bit during his shopping experience, just to glean his impressions. It was then that he mentioned, almost in passing, that he had just added to his home his young niece and nephew, having rescued them from several states away. Galahad explained to me that their living environment and circumstances were quite deplorable, and that they never have had a real homelife and “normal things “. He went on to say, “Let’s put it this way, ‘They have never even experienced Christmas’ “. My heart dropped. I asked whether he had added them to his application for toys and gifts. He said no, that the help he IS receiving was more than he could ask for. I urged him to reconsider. He declined. I let he and his Elf finish their rounds through our Toy Store, including a stop off at our check-out table for roles of gift paper, blankets and candy canes for the all. His items were bagged for him and he declined help to get his satchel of treasure out to his car, saying,” You all have already been so kind to me and my family.” I watched him walk out, again impressed with his demeanor, gratitude and joy. In an effort to enlighten one of our newer RAM volunteers, I shared the heartwarming tale of this man and the hugeness of his heart. Abruptly, my new Elf exclaimed with tears in her eyes, “That’s it?!?! For three young kids he only went outta’ here with one large black of bag of stuff??” I told her he declined adding on the two newer children is his care. She retorted, “That’s not ok, he needs to get stuff for those two new little kids, and for being such a great guy to take them in!!” I looked at Elf Steph and told her that if she feels that strongly about it, to go get Galahad, quickly before they could leave the parking lot. Apparently, she did feel strongly, for at that point she tore out the door like a flash and shot off toward their car! When she got there, she found Galahad and his wife sitting there, both in tears over the kind generosity they had just received. But Elf Steph was not done with them. For the next thing I knew, she and Galahad were walking back into our Toy Store. I must admit my heart swelled at this sight. Elf Steph and another helped Galahad ‘finish’ his shopping, this time choosing gift and toys for the niece and nephew as well. More roles of gift wrap, blankets and candy canes finished their excursion. We were very okay when on his way out THIS time, Galahad asked to give us a hug. You betcha! And THIS time, Elf Steph was okay with letting him go. She commented afterward with a satisfied smile, “Okay, now I feel like I’ve found MY Christmas spirit.” I think we ALL did. Jan Nowak Walters Executive Director Redbud Area Ministries Buchanan, Mi |
A Great Way to End 2020Niles was struggling to manage his emotions that day in November 2020 when he first entered the office at Redbud Area Ministries. Like so many others, he explained he never “had to do this before”; seek help from an agency. He didn’t even know what to ask for, or what we offered, he only knew that “RAM would help”, as was told him by a friend.
His story is not unusual these days. Niles explained that he and his gal were expecting their first child in about three months – a terribly time for him to lose his job due to Covid-19. While he was attempting to gain new employment, it was not yet forthcoming and he was in need of help with a utility disconnection notice. He also, despite being a young man, is battling a neurologic disease, which only complicates everything! After first talking with him enough to help him feel more comfortable in our place, with us and with receiving help, we then set about telling him about all the services RAM offers. Our staff was then able to quickly remedy his utility crisis, pledging payment to his electric bill, preventing a shut-off. Niles was blown away, that his crisis was handled so simply, smoothly and without any strings attached. He seemed almost shell-shocked. Since finances were obviously an issue for Niles at this time, we pretty much insisted he allow us to offer him pantry assistance that day as well. Niles was introduced to Karen, the volunteer staff who would be his escort through our pantry. Karen sensed Niles’ awkwardness and made it her goal to replace it with a sense of comfort and support. She guided him to the toiletries and personal care items, invited him to self-select food items throughout the isles of food, encouraged him to choose bread items and offered him a frozen pizza. Hearing that a baby is on the way, we also gifted him with a head start on diapers, infant clothes and made sure that he also had a warm winter coat for he and his gal. All throughout Niles’ experience within the RAM building, he kept remarking to Karen, “Are you sure it’s okay if I have this?” “Can I have all this, really?” “I don’t want to take away from anyone else, are you sure?” As Karen was bagging up his groceries and other chosen items, she learned he was going to have to walk home with his goods, a near mile from our location, a fact that disturbed her, especially given his neurologic condition, and the chill of the day. Under most circumstances, we do not provide rides to our guests, for a myriad of good reasons. However, on this day it was the right thing to do. Being almost the end of our business hours, I agreed to Karen’s petitions and permitted her to offer this young, new-father-to-be a ride home, (and I followed to ensure the safety of both). As I said earlier, his story is not unusual,…not to us at RAM. But to Niles, in HIS world, his story was very unusual,…for he unexpectedly learned that his walk matters, that his struggles can be shared with others, that there are others who care, who step up, who lighten his load and ease his cares,….with no strings attached. Karen shared with me later that on the short ride to his address, Niles was near tears out of gratitude for all that was just done for him. He told Karen that “after the baby arrives and things settle down”, he would like to come volunteer. Karen laughed to herself, knowing that that is NOT when things settle down, but she appreciated his sentiment, and as he exited her vehicle with his provisions, he promised to keep us up to date on the baby. We have every hope he will. And like Paul Harvey says, “here’s the rest of the story”. We had not seen Niles return to Redbud Area Ministries since our initial connection in November. At this point, the 3rd week of December, (right before we closed for our RAM annual vacation), Karen voiced concerns about Niles. She worried that perhaps in all of the emotion of his first visit, he didn’t grasp that he could come back. She fretted about whether or not he had a Christmas meal for his family. Given that it was literally our last business day ‘til the new year, I looked and Karen and said, “There is a complete Christmas Meal box remaining,….and only you know where he lives. Do you feel like a little road trip?” The width and brightness of her smile was all the answer I needed. So, with that small act of kindness, we at RAM finished off our year of ministry and service to the community, and closed our 2020 books. Can’t you almost hear Tiny Tim’s wee voice; “God bless us, everyone.” Jan Nowak Walters Executive Director Redbud Area Ministries Buchanan, Mi JRNW 12-2020 |
Miracles Still Happen
I’m sure you have at some point, heard someone say that miracles are a thing of the past, that they don’t really happen anymore. I couldn’t disagree more. At Redbud Area Ministries, we are privileged to witness the miracles of God’s providence on a daily basis. We are thankful FOR and reply UPON His guidance and generosity to do that which He calls us to do. Let me explain;
1. Not four minutes after the staff informed me that we were getting low on pancake mix, in the door came two dozen boxes of that very item. This phenomenon is not uncommon AT ALL at RAM.
2. As our guests struggle to make ends meet, a donor delivers 100 pecks of apples, to the delight of children, parents, those who “can“ foods for later use. Many local farms continue to bring us fresh produce for our guests, and some include neat recipes for our guests to experiment with in their own kitchens.
3. Despite Covid 19 keeping some of our usual staff away, several new volunteer staff members joined our “RAM FAM”, so we can easily continue to meet of our neighbors.
4. In a time when lots of folks are in need, RAM has experienced a constant flow of donations for our pantry shelves, even from sources outside of our service area, who heard about our good works and simply wanted to help our ministry.
5. The RAM FAM not only uplifts each other and our community in prayer, but also our guests, many of whom come to see us simply for that special need. What a privilege for us serve in this way!
6. Whenever RAM posts to Facebook a particular need, (with a whisper of prayer spoken over the need), it is always met abundantly. This response not only blesses RAM and our guests, but also the donor.
Matthew 25:35-40 is alive and well at Redbud Area Ministries!! We are honored to be the hands, feet, eyes, ears and heart of Christ to a hurting world. If you support us, thank you for partnering with us. If we serve you, thank you for allowing us to be helpful. If you want to see God at work FIRST HAND, come visit us; maybe you will feel called to join our RAM FAM, where miracles STILL happen.
Jan Nowak Walters
Executive Director Redbud Area Ministries
1. Not four minutes after the staff informed me that we were getting low on pancake mix, in the door came two dozen boxes of that very item. This phenomenon is not uncommon AT ALL at RAM.
2. As our guests struggle to make ends meet, a donor delivers 100 pecks of apples, to the delight of children, parents, those who “can“ foods for later use. Many local farms continue to bring us fresh produce for our guests, and some include neat recipes for our guests to experiment with in their own kitchens.
3. Despite Covid 19 keeping some of our usual staff away, several new volunteer staff members joined our “RAM FAM”, so we can easily continue to meet of our neighbors.
4. In a time when lots of folks are in need, RAM has experienced a constant flow of donations for our pantry shelves, even from sources outside of our service area, who heard about our good works and simply wanted to help our ministry.
5. The RAM FAM not only uplifts each other and our community in prayer, but also our guests, many of whom come to see us simply for that special need. What a privilege for us serve in this way!
6. Whenever RAM posts to Facebook a particular need, (with a whisper of prayer spoken over the need), it is always met abundantly. This response not only blesses RAM and our guests, but also the donor.
Matthew 25:35-40 is alive and well at Redbud Area Ministries!! We are honored to be the hands, feet, eyes, ears and heart of Christ to a hurting world. If you support us, thank you for partnering with us. If we serve you, thank you for allowing us to be helpful. If you want to see God at work FIRST HAND, come visit us; maybe you will feel called to join our RAM FAM, where miracles STILL happen.
Jan Nowak Walters
Executive Director Redbud Area Ministries