Mended-Heart Fund

House of Ruth exists for the sole purpose of helping those individuals who are infected with/affected by HIV/AIDS, but it would be impossible for it to exist without the generosity of the community. This not only comes in the form of monetary contributions but also through gifts of goods, services, time and talent. The Mended Heart Fund was designed to highlight the many extra needs that House of Ruth fulfills.

Although House of Ruth provides special care to those with extraordinary needs, it is sometimes the most ordinary of gifts that can bring comfort to one's life. A gift certificate to buy something extra or a movie ticket are some things that enhance those lives that have been altered by HIV/AIDS.

Churches, companies and families can provide unique but necessary goods and services in ways such as these:

Memorials and Honorariums

The gift of money in honor or memory of someone is the gift that gives twice. Please consider an honorarium or memorial as these examples show:

• David, a young man celebrating his Bar Mitzvah, decided that he wanted to do something for the community instead of receiving gifts. He asked his friends and family to celebrate this occasion by sending money to Camp Soaring Wings, a summer day-camp for children of House of Ruth.
  
• Before passing away peacefully, John made regular donations to House of Ruth. In his memory, John's family asked that cash donations be sent to House of Ruth in lieu of flowers.
  
• The Smith Company repairs large heating systems. At the beginning of winter, they honor their customers by sending a fruit basket. This past year, they made a cash donation to House of Ruth instead of sending a fruit basket.

In-Kind Gifts

House of Ruth clients are always in need of personal care items, as well as laundry, cleaning, and paper supplies. Vouchers can be used for much needed groceries if these other needs can be alternatively met. Most clients receive food stamps, however, toilet paper and soap can't be purchased with food stamps! Here are some recent examples of giving:

• Susan and Michael decided to marry in mid-life. Since both had household items from their individual homes, they asked their guests to give supplies, postage stamps and TARC passes to House of Ruth clients instead of giving wedding presents.
  
• First Baptist Church's youth group was looking for a service project. They collected cleaning supplies, laundry detergent and postage stamps from other church members for House of Ruth.
  

Special Programs

• The One for All Store accepts usable furniture, books, clothing and other household items. House of Ruth receives proceeds from the sale of goods at this upscale thrift store. For further information about store hours or drop-off times call 502-451-1963.
  
• Each year House of Ruth buys one or two sets of school uniforms for the children who are infected with/affected by HIV/AIDS. A donation of money or new uniforms provides a very practical gift to help keep household expenses down.
  
• Gift cards and vouchers are welcome year-round. Suggestions include Target, Wal-Mart, Value City, Walgreens, Kroger and Winn-Dixie.

House of Ruth can tailor a giving program for your group or organization. Cards or other acknowledgements can be customized to suit your needs. For information about any of these giving programs or for further suggestions, contact us at 502-587-5080.

Please Choose a Fund:
Education	Mended-Heart	Medical Assistance
Children	Housing and Building	Family Assistance
Glade House Program