The Heart Store – June 4, 2026

Today, something very simple happened at the TOC, yet it profoundly touched our hearts.

A young girl walked up to the front counter carrying a small gift. In her hands was a piece of paper decorated with little hearts she had carefully drawn herself. Along with her note, she brought a donation of $2. 

Her family came to the United States from Afghanistan five years ago, and they have been coming to the TOC for the past two years. She is only seven years old, so the first time she came to get help, she was five years old. With her handwritten note, she reminds us all of the impact we have every day in the lives of so many guests who walk through our open doors.

She wrote in her note, “The Heart Store is the best, waiting is good in the Heart Store.”  As we reflect on her words, we realized something beautiful. For the past two years, while she and her family have waited in line, they have listened to the devotionals we share every day. They have heard words of encouragement, hope, faith, and love. 

What may seem routine to us has been making an impression on a young heart. To her, this is not just a place where their necessities are being met; it is a place where she experiences kindness. A place where hearts are touched.

Her beautiful note reminds us that our work is about far more than services, programs, or daily tasks. Every conversation, every smile, every devotional, every act of compassion MATTERS; we may never fully know how deeply our words and actions impact those we serve, but today God allows us to experience a glimpse. 

Thank you for the compassion, patience, dedication, and love you show every day. Thank you for being willing to serve others, even when the work is difficult and the impact is not always visible. Her words are a beautiful reminder of our mission and the heart behind the work we all do every day.

Matthew 25:40 says, “And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'”