Nearly everyone has things around their house that they don't use. At the same time, a lot of people are moving into their first home and have nothing. Wouldn't it be great if there were some way to connect these two types of people? This is the concept that Julie and Steve Lins developed with their site, SentFromEbove.com .
Their Organization
Julie Lins, from Las Angeles, California, always wanted to start her own business and also has a passion for helping people. Steve and Julie noticed a gap between people who feel comfortable going to charities and people who are struggling to get by. There are countless individuals and families in this world who just need a little tap in the right direction. At this point, the Lins' realized they could build a platform to connect people in need with people who are willing to help.
On October 15, 2008, Steve and Julie Lins launched their website, SentFromEbove.com . Originally getting the word out by sending emails to 150 of their closest friends and family, their site has grown exponentially. Just a couple months later, SentFromEbove.com had almost 2500 unique visitors in one month. This idea is taking off in Southern California and is continuing to grow on the national scale.
Their Site
SentFromEbove.com is an online service connecting people in need with those who can help. People and families who are a little down on their luck simply 'Post a Wish' to their website and are instantly connected to a community of remarkably generous people. If you consider yourself to be a generous person, then 'Give a Gift' and be a part of this community.
Typically, the people in need are, for the first time, breaking away from shelters to live on their own. They may have enough to cover rent but they obviously have nothing to fill their homes. SentFromEbove.com also hosts a 'givEways' section where people can post items they no longer use and are willing to give away.
Julie and Steve Lins are constantly acknowledging the latest families in need as well as the 'Featured Givers'. As of February 1st, 2009, just 3.5 months after launch, SentFromEbove.com has given over 50 items to the people who need it most.
Their Outlook
Currently, Julie and Steve are primarily focused on helping people from the Greater Las Angeles area. Specifically they have partnered with a local non-profit organization, Harbor Interfaith Services, to help families who are emerging directly out of their program.
However, the blessings of SentFromEbove.com have also spread to Tennessee, Pennsylvania and other states around the country. In order to continue helping on the national scale, they are looking to partner with other organizations across the United States. Their goal is to help anyone who needs it, no matter where they reside.
People Should Know...
Everyone has things they no longer need or want. More than likely, these things can help a family in need. If you can't find a particular family you wish to help, then Julie and Steve are always accepting donations to SentFromEbove.com. They will be unable to sustain this organization if people aren't donating to their cause as well.
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