Hello Everyone! My name is Beth and I am visiting Burlap Street's blog today from my blog, A Little Country House and Vintage Market. I am at Burlap Street today, because, my sister Kate asked me to convey to you her passion about a ministry here in Atlanta, GA. Kate is a supporter and volunteer at Wellspring Living Ministries. I know you are wondering, why you are talking about ministry, this is a furniture blog. Well, Burlap Street makes these great headboards and benches and other up cycled furnishings. If you buy from Burlap Street, ten percent of the profit will go directly to Wellspring Living Ministries, a wonderful local Atlanta ministry.
What is Wellspring??? Wellspring is a program that has been in place since 2001. It was started by Mary Frances Bowley. She wanted to help girls who are in trouble. Girls who are on drugs, on the street, abused, and /or involved in prostitution. Wellspring Living rescues women and girls. They provide them shelter, education, counseling and a future. 1 in 4 girls will be sexually abused before the age of 18. Girls who are abused have a higher rate of becoming victim to the sex trade and from there, trafficking. According to the U.N., human trafficking is considered the fastest growing criminal industry in the world. Shocking and depressing. Millions of women and children are kidnapped, or coerced and taken into captivity every year. They are forced into a lifestyle of prostitution and drugs. 27 million men, women, and children are trapped in slavery today – more than any other time in history. And Atlanta is the third largest hub for sex trafficking in the U.S. Most will die there, but there are incredible people like Mary Frances, who decided she wouldn't sit by and let it happen, she would fight it. When you step out in faith, The Lord does mighty things and moves thru his people. We just have to hear the call and be obedient.
Kate and Michelle are very talented at home decor, but they knew that any business they endeavor in would have to somehow give back to others. A tool thru which God could work, to help others who are suffering. If you already have a purpose that is dear to you, just your prayers for the ministry are appreciated, if not, you can give to Wellspring Living. We just wanted others to be aware of a great place to help here in Atlanta, and to also know, that everyone of us can do something to change our world, no matter how small that something may seem. Just takes a step. Indifference is not an option. To learn more about Wellspring Living go to www.wellspringliving.org. Some things you can do at a local level are getting educated and learn the facts. Then, boldly use social media and opportunities in your community and sphere of influence to speak up. Become an intern at an organization fighting slavery and/or trafficking on a local, nation, and/or global scale. Use your gifts, talents, and time to make a difference. Always always always pray for the people who are trapped, and last but not least give. Money makes things happen!! To learn more about Wellspring Living go to www.wellspringliving.org
Above all else guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life. Proverbs 4:24