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The Rio Linda News

Giving the Gift of Generosity

Dec 10, 2024 10:27AM ● By Annie Kerr
More than 48 feet worth of clothing is set up at the Free Store, according to Sandie McGouran. Photo courtesy of Sandie McGouran [4 Images] Click Any Image To Expand

RIO LINDA, CA (MPG) - Located at 7200 Rio Linda Blvd. at Q Street, LifePointe Church has become a beacon of hope in the Rio Linda area through its compassionate ministry.

At the heart of this effort is the “Sisters in Christ” program, a ministry led by local resident Sandie McGouran. This program gives back to the community with a year-round Free Store that provides essential items to individuals and families in need, along with generous holiday giveaways.

This year, Sisters in Christ distributed 37 turkeys, along with “all the fixings” to families in need during Thanksgiving, according to McGouran.

“We would like to thank the community for their response to our needs this holiday season,” McGouran shared. “Your donations have meant so much to us.”

The Sisters in Christ ministry, which operates throughout the year, provides essential items to anyone in need, with no questions asked. It offers everything from clothing and shoes to household items, toys and personal care products.

This year, the program has made a significant impact through its Free Store, helping community members in times of financial strain, hardship or transition.

Sisters in Christ's outreach is wide-ranging, assisting individuals who are homeless or struggling to find stability.  McGouran and her husband, Tom, work closely with those in need, offering practical help as well as encouragement and support.

“We serve the whole community. No questions asked, no form to fill out, just love and prayers,” McGouran said.

McGouran’s desire to serve others comes from her own experience of hardship.

“We were homeless. If it hadn’t been for my daughter and the church, I don’t know where we would be,” McGouran reflected.

This personal experience motivated her to get involved with Sisters in Christ.

“I always liked the underdog,” McGouran added, emphasizing her passion for helping those who are struggling or overlooked.

Most of the volunteers who assist with the Free Store and other initiatives have walked similar paths, many having been homeless themselves, according to McGouran. This shared experience fosters a deep sense of compassion and understanding in their work.

Sisters in Christ continues to make a meaningful impact on the community, especially during the holiday season. On Dec. 14, Sisters in Christ will participate in the Rio Linda Christmas Light Parade, bringing the holiday spirit to the local community.

According to McGouran, the program also has an event planned for Dec. 21 called the Lil Drummer Boy Christmas Present Giveaway, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church.

This marks McGouran’s fourth year organizing the giveaway, and this year, more than 300 children have already been signed up to receive gifts. Each child will receive two presents, and there will be a special opportunity for attendees to draw a golden ticket for a chance to win larger prizes, including a brand-new bike. Gift-wrapping materials will be provided, as well.

Through its year-round Free Store and holiday programs, Sisters in Christ reflects LifePointe Church’s dedication to serving the community and meeting the needs of those who might otherwise go overlooked. The Free Store helps provide basic household items but also practical assistance, such as providing clothing for those who need a professional outfit for a job interview.

In everything they do, Sisters in Christ is motivated by a deep love for others and a desire to share the love of Jesus, according to the church’s website.

Through the generosity of donations and the work of volunteers, Sisters in Christ is able to make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families in the Rio Linda area, according to McGouran. Whether through the Free Store, holiday giveaways or ongoing support, McGouran and her dedicated volunteers continue to uplift and empower the community.

The Free Store is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. To learn more about Sisters in Christ, donate or volunteer, contact McGouran at 210-326-1806. You can also visit the church’s website at www.lifepointenaz.com.