The second in our blog series – What can I give?
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:16-18)
Giving time at the Besom in York has often looked like teams of people decorating or gardening for people in need. And most of the time, that is a huge part of what we do.
However, there are plenty of other ways to give time through the Besom, to help bridge the gap between those who have, and those in need. One way to do this is by coming on the van. The van team collect furniture from people who have offered it, and deliver to recipients who are referred to us. It is such a special time to meet and encourage givers, but also to see the impact first hand of how people’s lives are being improved.*
Another way to give time is in the office. We have a small admin team who liaise with referrers, organise van runs, sort through things that are given and deliver things in cars during the day. There is often a crossover with Bundles of Joy who also have people in to pack bundles and deliver them.
Another way to give time is by carrying out assessments. We receive lots of referrals for people in need across the city. As much as possible, we aim to meet each recipient, with their key worker, to assess just what they need to make their house feel like a home. *
We also have a wonderful team of trustees who give their time to support the core team and oversee the running of the Besom as a charity. *
Lastly, and most importantly, the best way to give time, is to pray for us.
If you’d like to know more about giving time, please drop us an email: info@thebesominyork.co.uk
* We do require a reference from a church leader and an informal chat to take part in these roles.