Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Mustard Seed charity turns trash into treasure

ORLANDO -- 

Charities across Central Florida are having a tough time this holiday season.

Donations are down across the board, but one charity is using trash to meet new needs.

Six months ago the Mustard Seed was in danger of shutting down. But now a new recycling program is keeping that from happening.

Officials said they will take just about anything, from cardboard to Christmas lights to even old mattresses.

They then recycle those materials and use the money to run the organization. 

"We take the good with the bad, and what this has done is given us an unlimited supply of new mattresses," said Jennifer Albert with the Mustard Seed.

Officials said the turnaround came at a very good time. Not only did it benefit them, but it came at a time when they are seeing more and more people walk through their door looking for help.

The Mustard Seed helps to provide clothing and furniture for individuals or families that have fallen on difficult times.

They are located at 12 Mustard Seed Lane and usually open between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. during the week.

As the old cliche' goes: "One man's garbage is another man's treasure!" I'm glad these people are helping the poor. I only hope that it is charity and no strings attached! We have the St. Vincent de Paul Society at our church. They do marvelous stuff feeding the needy and also assisting with paying some electric and other bills. Nothing is asked in return except I always ask the folks to pray for us! That's free, you know!
Deacon John

Deacon John