On Friday, it wasn't a pitch to inspire a purchase but an effort to change a life. "Two years ago, in this economy, I was one of those statistics. I lost my job with two days notice, and I've been able to pull my house out of foreclosure, turn my life around, and save my family," said Taylor. "So, I know where these women are coming from."
When Taylor lost her job, she turned to selling cosmetics. It's been better than she ever expected. When she heard the homeless shelter was short on personal products, she knew it was her opportunity to give thanks for her good fortune.
"I wanted to give to them. I wanted to spend time with them. I have been more blessed than they could ever know by being with them," she said.
Taylor asked her clients to sponsor residents, and volunteers came through. 70 bags of personal products like face wash and soap were delivered.
Sarah Barber says it was the first gift she received in years. "I felt a connection today, yes I did, that they take their time out to come here and spend time with us." Barber says she's been in recovery for 15 days and hopefully for the rest of her life.
For Taylor, if a gift bag can help any of these women reach their goals, it'll be worth it. "This might not be in your neighborhood. You might not ever want to step foot in here, but there are people who need you," she said. "So send some money, send some coats, send some good stuff down here. They need you!"
Like so many little efforts such as this one, it's already growing. Taylor says she's partnering with Cousino Family Restaurants to create an internship program for the homeless residents.
