Your love is stronger than the dark.

Drum roll PLEEEEZ... $306!!!

That is what all of you angels contributed over the past 72 hours through our Cookie Be Givin Shop!!! Those shirts sold like hot cakes (only have 9 left!), and now it is time to deliver the proceeds to 4 incredible organizations!

First up, we have the Trans Youth Equality Organization! Here is their essential mission... “The Trans Youth Equality Foundation provides education, advocacy and support for transgender and gender non-conforming children and youth and their families. Our mission is to share information about the unique needs of this community, partnering with families, educators and service providers to help foster a healthy, caring, and safe environment for all transgender children.” You can follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Next, we have Miss Carly’s! I found this organization through the beautiful soul/shop owner of White Light Mercantile (Check out her shop for the coolest vintage finds around, no joke). Miss Carly’s is truly humbling and a complete inspiration. In fact, my eyes are watery as I write this. Here is their mission: “We open our home to those in need in order to connect with people personally and build relationships. No forms. No alienation. We serve those who have fallen between the cracks and burned all of their bridges. We provide hot meals and unconditional love with a side of sass. Three days a week, we open our home to the community for meals. We provide free and confidential Narcan training and hands-only CPR to the public. Three days a week we open our donation room to those in need (clothing and hygiene). We provide meals at our door to anyone who is hungry, 24/7, no questions asked.” You can find them on Facebook, and follow/support their path.

Up next, Easter Seals of Central Illinois! My mom (who underwrote the expenses of printing these fabulous shirts), gave everything she had for 30 years to this organization and the families they serve. Children with autism, developmental delays, disabilities, and other special needs come to Easter Seals for services and therapies which help them reach their full potential, and live their best lives. You can follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

And finally, you gave to Fill a Heart 4 Kids! If you follow my blog, you know this organization has a special place in my family’s heart. This organization is a beating heart of love for the Chicago area’s homeless and foster youth. You can follow them on both Facebook and Instagram. According to their website, which references HHS, AFCARS, and Government data from 2017... “On an average day in America there are 120,000 orphans and foster children living in group homes or institutions. They believe no one wants them or cares about them. Many of their family members trafficked them for discount drugs. 1.3 million homeless youths are living on the street, many were in the foster care system. They struggle to survive. 1 out of 4 youth are targeted by traffickers within 72 hours after becoming homeless. It's critical for communities to come together to help these desperate kids!”

And that is exactly what you all did! You came together! You gave because you could. You shared. You made a difference. Words cannot express how humbled and grateful me and my family are to work with you, and serve the most precious gift we have… each other.

2020 ain’t all bad, folks. You are living proof of that. But 2021 is full of promise, and from my family to yours, we wish you nothing but the best!

Here are the screenshots of the donations you made possible:

It should be noted that I am just a volunteer, and NOT official in any capacity, lol. I am just one person trying to bring us all together through little micro-activism ideas, and I am willing & able to put in the sweat equity it takes organize. As of now, I am NOT a non-profit, and anything you contribute will NOT be tax-deductible. Maybe someday, but for now, this level of grassroots offering is my wheelhouse.

From the deepest part of my family's heart, thank you for your support!