When what you need is Helping Hands

Stewarts establish La Vernia-area ministry



STEWART FAMILY
Wayne Stewart slices a brisket he prepared for a benefit held by Helping Hands, the ministry he started with his wife, Sharon. The nonprofit organization serves La Vernia and the surrounding community.

“We want to do what we can and, if we can’t do it, we try to find someone who can.”

Sharon Stewart of Helping Hands Ministry in La Vernia sums up the mission of the charity she and her husband of 22 years, Wayne, started last year.

The two are members of the Cowboy Fellowship of Wilson County, located near La Vernia, and have lived in the area for 22 years. They are both retired — Sharon from dentistry administration and Wayne from truck driving. Sharon said she’s always had a servant’s heart, but six years ago, her life perspective changed.

She was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent surgery. When she woke up from the surgery, she was pronounced cancer-free. This, Sharon said, made her even more aware of God’s grace and she wanted to help demonstrate that through her ability to help others.

Sharon and Wayne, who have three children, 13 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, became even more active in the church. Sharon helped put together several benefits the church held, but last year Wayne suggested they start their own ministry.

“Wayne came to me and said God put it on his heart to start a ministry,” Sharon said.

From there, they began assisting others under the ministry they named Helping Hands. They started the paperwork to become a 501 (c)(3), which was finally approved in May and backdated to March. This, Sharon said, allows businesses to make larger donations to the ministry.

Some of the ways the Stewarts help others is by organizing benefits for people in need, from individuals injured in car accidents to disabled elderly folks needing extra help. Cowboy Fellowship often holds benefits in which the Stewarts participate.

But now, their giving focus is greater. Being retired, they are able to work together full-time serving others.

There are many things Sharon and Wayne can’t physically do themselves, such as building a deck for a disabled person, but Helping Hands doesn’t limit the help it can give.

They have discovered people who can do electrical work or carpentry, or who possess other useful skills, and are willing to help when asked. Sharon said it’s amazing what they have discovered about people’s hidden gifts, simply by asking for assistance.

One facet of Helping Hands is Wayne’s gift for barbecue. Their brisket plates are enjoyed by many and tend to sell out at benefits.

“People love his barbecue,” Sharon said.

And that is why a friend suggested they run a food truck to raise funds for the ministry. Shortly after that suggestion, they were gifted a food truck. The Stewarts are excited to get it up and running.

Sharon said she can’t believe how much help has manifested to allow the ministry to really take off. She attributes it to God. It seems like the more good the ministry does, the more blessings it is able to provide.

Sharon also said that they offer assistance beyond La Vernia. They help their community, which encompasses more than their town.

“We love helping people,” Sharon said. “I am able, we are able, so we do.”

To donate or volunteer with Helping Hands ministry, email hhlv4145@gmail.com.