Two years ago today, the world changed. 9/11 is a day we will remember forever. I was walking past one of my co-workers' offices and saw a live picture of NYC. The first plane had just crashed into the World Trade Center. I saw the second plane's destructive path minutes later. These are images that will always be a part of our hearts. The hurt of that day runs deep. Within minutes of the crisis, we at Operation Blessing began working with ministry partners in NYC and Washington DC to support rescue and recovery efforts. We haven't stopped. We are still at work there -- bringing healing to the hurt and confusion that still affects the children.

Tiffany had always withdrawn from her classmates. She didn't like to socialize. Then the events on 9/11 traumatized the little New Yorker further into seclusion. A year passed and she didn't get any better. Searching for help, Tiffany's mother found out about the Operation Blessing sponsored Franklin Street Kids center. Franklin Street Kids provides a ‘safe haven’ for those children who are confused, hurting and in need not only because of the 9/11 tragedy and the war in Iraq, but also because life in New York City can be a daunting experience.

After Tiffany completed her first program at Franklin Street Kids,her mother shared, "I would like to enroll Tiffany again in your program this September. In your group therapy sessions she has learned to socialize more. She's not as withdrawn and even wants to take tennis lessons this summer -- something she's never done before. Thanks to Franklin Street Kids, she is healing and emerging as her own person!"

"On this Anniversary of 9/11 I would like to especially thank the OB partners that have helped bring healing to our city -- before, during and after 9/11 with no plans to stop now!" commented Rev. Esposito, OBI NYC outreach center leader. "With OB's help, I can search out needs in my city and actually make a difference in the lives of hurting people. "Wow! Working for Operation Blessing these many years, I have had the greatest job in the world! Rev. Jim Esposito began working with Operation Blessing 1987. He has partnered with churches, ministries and individuals in helping over 6 million people.

Partners, thank you for helping us break the cycle of suffering across the United States and around the world!

HOW YOU CAN HELP
You can help by making an online donation toward OBI's disaster relief efforts. With your support, we can continue to provide emergency relief and recovery. Please make an on-line donation today.

 

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