On December 2, 2007 Ashley Schumacher was 8 years old.  She had one wish.  “I wanted my presents to go to children who didn’t have any toys this year.”  So on December 1st she and her family brought the gifts she received from her birthday party down to City Union Mission’s Family Center.

Her mom, Melinda, explains, “We have known about City Union Mission, but were unaware of the Presence of Love event held on the first Saturday in December.  We had really hoped that Ashley could be the one to come and bring the gifts herself, but thought we’d probably have to come down during the week when she was in school.  I thought I’d check the website at www.CityUnionMission.org on the off chance that something was going on.  We were all so excited to learn about that the Presence of Love event was scheduled at the Family Center that very day!”

“When we got there we were registered and then went on a tour of the facility.  It was so meaningful for all of us, especially Ashley.”

Her mom and dad, Melinda and Rick, said it was important to them that they instill in their children care for others.  They have certainly accomplished that.  Rick told us, “We are blessed that Ashley has such a caring heart.” 

You can still bless those less fortunate this Christmas.  Please, click here for more information about the Presence of Love store (formerly the Christmas store). 

And please, click here for information about other current drives going on during the Christmas season.