Daystar Beacon

September 2024

Mission Impact

A Helping Hand In Times of Need: Colleen's Story

At Daystar, we believe in being there for our community, especially during the toughest of times. Recently, we had the privilege of helping Colleen Nikolaidis and her family when they needed it most.

Colleen is a devoted grandmother who, after the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, adopted her third grandchild in 2020. As a grieving mother and grandmother, Colleen has faced challenges that few of us can imagine. "Times are tougher than ever," she shared. Yet, despite the difficulties, Colleen reached out to Daystar, and we were happy to assist.

Our dedicated team members, Mary Anne and Maria, went above and beyond to provide the support that Colleen and her family needed. From helping with her light bill to offering a friendly smile and a listening ear, they ensured that Colleen felt supported and cared for. As Colleen expressed, "Mrs. Mary Anne goes beyond the call of duty and expounds excellence in all aspects needed at Daystar Life Center!" Maria, also made a meaningful impact: "She helped me with my light bill…[she] also expounds excellence and went beyond the call of duty!"

It's stories like these that remind us of the difference we can make together.

And, of course, there's one more reason to smile: a special "Spidey bike" for little Alex, who loves it! We're grateful to be a small part of their journey and to bring some joy during these difficult times.

Colleen's gratitude and resilience inspires us to keep doing what we do best - providing hope, compassion, and practical help to those who need it most.

Thank you, Colleen, for sharing your story with us. We’re honored to have been a part of your family's journey.

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Food Pantry Farm Update

Okra Harvest Season

Okra is in season, and we’re growing plenty of it in our food pantry farm!

This past weekend alone, our dedicated garden volunteers harvested an impressive 13 pounds of this summer favorite - and that's just the beginning. Okra grows so fast that our volunteers are out in the garden harvesting it every day!

We’re excited to bring this fresh, delicious okra from our garden to your kitchen. Here’s a quick and simple way to enjoy it at home:

10 Minute Pan Fried Okra - (or simply follow the recipe card below.)

Stay tuned for more updates from our food pantry farm, and don’t forget to grab some fresh okra on your next visit!

Save the Date

Join Us for a Spooktacular Day of Fun and Giving Back

Looking for a way to have fun and make a difference? Come to our Boowling for a Cause fundraiser on Sunday, October 20th, from 12 PM to 3 PM at Ten Pin Lanes!

Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or just looking to have a good time, this event is perfect for everyone! Dress up in your best costume for a chance to win our contest, or aim for the top score to snag an awesome prize.

It's all about enjoying a frightfully fun afternoon while supporting a great cause. Every ticket sold helps us continue our mission of serving our community. So, bring your friends and family - the more, the merrier!

Don’t wait! Tickets are on sale now. Get yours today and get ready for strikes, laughs, and a whole lot of community spirit.

Get Tickets

Each Ticket Includes:

3 games of bowling
Rental shoes
Snacks and drinks
Entry into our costume contest, best bowling score contest
A chance to win big with our 50/50 raffle

Tickets: $30 for adults, $20 for children (12 and under)

Financial Tip of the Month

Brought to you by

Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

It can be emotionally taxing to make plans to cover your estate in the event that something happens to you. But making a plan now can help save your loved ones from a lot of stress, protect all that you’ve worked to build and most importantly, ensure your wishes are known.

Estate planning isn’t only for the wealthy. An estate plan allows you to control what happens to your assets and property if you die or become incapacitated. Without a plan, your state government will determine how they’re distributed, which can be a lengthy and costly process for your loved ones.

Your Community Needs You: Become a Volunteer Today

Are you ready to make a difference?

We're looking for volunteers to join us in creating a positive impact in our community! With a variety of opportunities available, there's something for everyone. Haven't volunteered before? No problem! We'll train you for the role you want to fill.

We can't wait to welcome you to our team!

Visit our volunteer page to to sign up and get started.

Volunteer Opportunities

We Have a Pet Pantry

Our volunteer pup, Guinness, wants you to know that we have a pet pantry alongside our healthy food pantry for humans!

Right now, our pet pantry is stocked with plenty of dog food. We know that furry friends deserve love and care just like their humans.

If you know anyone who could use some kibble for their pup, spread the word to help keep tails wagging!

September is Peak Hurricane Season

Be Prepared for Severe Weather: A Guide for Florida Residents

By Shelley Klahs, Daystar Volunteer

Severe weather can strike anywhere in the United States, often with little warning. In Florida, this means being prepared for hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 1. Knowing how to act when a hurricane is approaching is crucial for your safety. This guide outlines essential steps for creating an emergency plan, building an emergency kit, and knowing what to do before, during, and after a hurricane.

Understanding Hurricanes

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) defines a hurricane as a storm with sustained winds of at least 74 mph. Hurricanes also bring high winds, storm surges, and flooding, which require careful planning.

Preparing for a Hurricane

Create an Emergency Plan:

Know your evacuation routes and destinations.
Regularly check Pinellas County’s website for updates and evacuation information: Pinellas County Emergency Information.
Practice drills with your family to ensure everyone knows the plan.
Notify extended family and friends about your plan and how to reach you.

Build an Emergency Kit:

Basic Supplies: Batteries, flashlight, whistle, eyeglasses, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, matches, and dry clothing.
Communication: Radio, cell phone, charger, backup battery, portable generator, and solar panel chargers. Keep electronic devices fully charged and have a list of emergency contacts.
Medical Needs: Prescription medications, assistive aids (walker, cane, oxygen), first aid kit (Tylenol, bandages, rubbing alcohol).
Food and Water: Non-perishable food, manual can opener, water filters, a gallon of water per person per day, sanitary products, resealable bags, and garbage bags.

Special Considerations:

For Kids: Toys, books, games, comfort items (pillow/blanket).
For Pets: Immunization records, vet contact information, microchip details, current photo, food/water for two weeks, waste bags, crate, collar/leash, toys, and medications.

Home Preparation:

Seal windows and secure outdoor objects.
Stack sandbag barriers if necessary.
Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas and a paper map in case GPS is unavailable.

Important Documents:

Store documents in a waterproof container: cash, bank statements, identification documents (driver’s license, social security card, passport), family photos, military records, wills, power of attorney statements, and insurance documents.
Keep an updated household inventory list with item details, model numbers, serial numbers, purchase dates, and photos.

During and After a Hurricane

Follow local evacuation orders.
Stay informed through reliable sources like NOAA and FEMA.
After the storm, contact your insurance company to file claims for any property damage.

Useful Resources

By taking these steps, you can ensure your safety and that of your family during hurricane season. Stay prepared, stay informed, and stay safe.

This issue's quote is inspired by National Positive Thinking Day, celebrated on September 13th. Positive Thinking Day is a tradition invented in 2003. It serves as a day to promote the power of positivity and revolves around the idea of encouraging optimistic thoughts.

Our Mission

We fight hunger, poverty, and hopelessness

by providing the necessities of life to our neighbors in need.

We engage, educate, and empower the community by promoting the value of nutrition and financial literacy.

Become A Volunteer

Partner Collaboration

Our mission would not be achievable without the support of our community, including individuals, corporations, and groups who share our vision.

We deeply appreciate these partnerships and value the role they play in helping us advance our work in the community.

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Daystar Life Center, Inc. is an IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Your donations are deductible for federal income tax as allowed by law.