Creating a Legacy of Compassion at the Home Stores
The Hospice Home Stores are not only a vital part of the fundraising effort of Four Seasons Foundation, but they also provide education about Four Seasons. The staff and volunteers are a resource for those who are downsizing or for family members who are packing up a loved one’s home after a death.
Our drivers and logistics team know that when they get a call to come pick up furniture and belongings from one of the families we have served, they are not only there to pick up the items, they are also helping bring closure. They bring hope to the family, assuring them that proceeds from their loved one’s belongings make a difference in the lives of others in need of hospice care.
Our home store teams treat items with great respect and help steward them, research pricing, and present them in their best condition so that the items become “Purchases with Purpose.” The sale of these items creates proceeds that are, in turn, stewarded by the Four Seasons Foundation to enhance programs at Four Seasons, The Care You Trust, and also provide a path to care for those who may not be able to afford it.
We understand that parting with sentimental items is not easy, but it is often a necessary part of the grieving process. Pete Tintle, whose wife was served by Four Seasons, wrote a beautiful poem that he shared at our Tree of Lights Ceremony this year. It communicates the hard task of cleaning out those closets filled with memories. It’s a daunting task, but one that can be thought of as a beginning instead of an ending. Giving these beloved items a new life helps your loved one leave a legacy of compassion that positively impacts the lives of people in your community.
Read Pete’s poem below.
Today, I Gave Your Coat Away
Created in a grief support group led by Four Seasons
The closets are cluttered, and this you know,
Go through that stuff; it’s got to go.
Lauren (Pete’s daughter) won’t wear it, and certainly not you…
Today I found your jacket too.
It’s cold out there, and people need.
Give it to someone else to lead.
Your shoes are gone; they walked away.
There’s no reason all these things should stay.
I know you’re right, you always are,
Let’s not argue about this anymore.
I’ll put all this stuff into the car,
I’ll go downtown, it’s not too far.
There are blouses and sweaters and belts and such
But when you really look at it, it’s not all that much.
There’s no good reason all these things should stay…
So today I gave your coat away.
We are grateful for your support of Four Seasons through Home Store donations. You make a difference in the lives of those who need care, and also those who are ready to let go of their late loved one’s belongings. Thank you for making care possible.