Thank you Sarah Messner, merchandising manager, and Jessica Larsen, store manager of the Home Depot in Lodi, for your incredible generosity, kindness and gift of time! I will always remember Christmas 2012 as "The Year of the Christmas Miracle from the Home Depot Store!"
I was in the midst of shopping for poinsettias on Black Friday for some special people, many of whom have spent their lives filled with service for others, when Jessica and Sarah approached and asked, "What are you going to do with all these poinsettias?"
I replied, "They're for some special senior citizens."
"We would like to partner with you!" they said.
"What do you mean?" I asked.
They queried, "Is there something else these people could use that we could provide?"
I was shocked!
Bottom line: On Sunday, Nov. 27, Sarah, along with Chris, Kevin and Shane from The Home Depot, went throughout Lodi delivering and setting up beautiful, 6-foot, live fir trees for many individuals from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Set-up included a tree stand, lights, ornaments (with children helpers who were given cute aprons by Home Depot and gingerbread house kits later), and the tree's first dose of water. The last surprise — one of those beautiful Douglas firs for our home!
The recipients of the trees were awe-struck and could not believe what was happening! They saw the Home Depot truck drive up loaded with trees and thought, "What in the world?" Their expressions were priceless!
They said things like, "Oh my!" as they cupped their hands over their mouths, shook their heads in disbelief or asked, "Why me? Let someone else have it!"
One man, whose wife recently passed away, said later, "It felt so good to be remembered!" Most had not had a live tree in their homes for years.
Thank you to the Home Depot personnel for providing a Christmas miracle to so many of us. You touched our hearts and demonstrated what we believe Christmas is all about — a gift of love and mercy, given to this earth years ago, to be shared with all. In profound gratitude.
Dave and Lois Gifford
Galt
Ted Lauchland posted at 4:01 pm on Mon, Dec 10, 2012.
Many companies large and small have a community outreach program and actually have a hired position to lead that promotional effort. This seemed to be exceptional in the extra effort and value in today's economic conditions. The need was there and the timing perfect.
We all give in all ways- "what life is all about" Thanks Darrell
In Lodi sometimes all you have to do is ask.
Thank's Home Depot
Darrell Baumbach posted at 6:41 am on Sat, Dec 8, 2012.
Article stated...You touched our hearts and demonstrated what we believe Christmas is all about — a gift of love and mercy
Well said... if only love and giving could be extended to "what life is all about". I have not shopped much at Home Depot. After this story, Ill stop by.