Love In Action

I was going through a challenging time in my life with no income and the possibility of losing my apartment.  Through LOINA, I was guided through applying for local resources and assistance.  I felt as though they made my issues their own.  It was so personal and loving.  Now that I am back on my feet, I try to help others as much as I can and pass that kindness along. 

 Stanley

During the COVID lockdown, many immigrants found themselves without work, without food or access to food.  Where many Americans were able to get government assistance, many undocumented immigrant families struggled without.  It was such a challenging time when one day LOINA showed up with an abundance of food at our church's parking lot.  It was not just a donation of pantry items but of bulk Latin foods - rice, beans, corn meal etc. It was timely, well thought out generosity. 

Elizabeth

LOINA organized a back pack giveaway in my neighborhood in the inner city.  I saw the flyers but could not make it for the giveaway,  I needed the supplies for my kids and thought that I had missed my opportunity.  That evening a lady drove to my house and dropped back packs filled with supplies.  She said she knew I needed them and had saved them for us.  As if that was not enough, later she brought us winter clothes.  I was so blessed and touched by this.  

Dee

LOINA has been instrumental in cleaning up our neighborhood.  They have cultivated a camaraderie and fellowship among the neighbors so that everyone seems intent on keeping the streets clean.  It all started with seeing unsolicited cleaning efforts by volunteers, followed by impromptu dialogues with neighbors and then porch meetings on ways to improve our street and neighborhood.  We are using the same one on one approach to discourage violence and encourage active engagement by the youth. 

Alvin 

I was looking for work and was homeless.  I met one of the volunteers at LOINA and got help in applying for a job.  While working, before I could save enough for an apartment, she drove me everyday to the shelter to check on availability of space.  At that time, there was a waiting list for a single male.  So while I waited, she found alternative housing and when I got a paycheck, she helped me rent a room and moved me in.  

Jason

I had been struggling with addiction for years and had gotten arrested for a DUI.  My life was literary falling apart. LOINA volunteers not only provided the legal advocacy, but also the mental health support and care I desperately needed.  At one of my lowest points, a LOINA volunteer drove two hours to pick me up while inebriated, housed me and checked me into a facility.  I am now sober and championing sobriety efforts for the benefit of others because of the love and compassion that was showed to me. 

SG