Sammy’s Window, A part of Foster Adopt Connect
Sammy’s Window is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to help foster children enter the foster system with some sense of dignity, and to help foster parents with the transition. We assist care families with food, clothing, hygiene, school supplies, furniture and much more.
HOW DID “SAMMY’S WINDOW” COME ABOUT?
On July 11, 2008 the founder of “Sammy’s Window”, Mark Hay, sat at his Dad’s bedside along with his step-mother and watched his father, Samuel (Sammy) L. Hay, peacefully take his last breath here on earth. Although his heart no longer beats physically on this earth, his heart beats for others in the formation of this ministry.
As a boy, at only 6 years of age, Dad was forced to leave his home and his family because of financial hardships and family health issues. He was placed on a bus and sent to live with his aunt and uncle in Fair Grove, MO. He used to tell me that the first few days there, he would sit and look out the window trying to find something that made sense to him again. His world, as he had known it, no longer existed.
How many people, young and old, are doing this same today? That is where our group, “Sammy’s Window”, hopes to shine. Our desire is to show that there is someone out there who cares.”
If we can work together and be a part of the answer on the other side of the window, in spite of our own imperfections, we too can someday hear those words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Foster Adopt Connect SWMO
Facebook page for Foster Adopt Connect SWMO https://www.facebook.com/facswmo/
Sammy’s Window https://www.facebook.com/groups/53740542338/
Mark Hay is the Director of Services at Sammy's Window an integral part of Foster Adopt Connect SWMO in Springfield. He has the pleasure to do just exactly what he was made to do, assist care families with much needed items, at no charge, through Sammy’s Window. Sammy’s Window began serving Southwest Missouri families in 2009, and was proud to join Foster Adopt Connect (formally MFCAA) in 2014. Together, we see a brighter future for those who use our services. Mark is a father, stepfather, foster father and a grinning Grandpa. Mark has no degrees and never went to college. He is living proof that the most important element in serving others is having the HEART for it!
Joe Medina grew up in the Kansas City area and attended the University of Missouri obtaining a bachelor’s degree in the Administration of Justice. He came to Springfield in 1986 to work for the City of Springfield. Joe recently retired from the Springfield Art Museum to work for Foster Adopt Connect SWMO. He enjoys living in Springfield and being active in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and sports activities. Joe follows the Royals and Chiefs religiously. He loves to relax and spend time with family when not keeping up with the chores. Joe says he is most known for his joy of good food and so it is fitting that he loves to cook, and try new foods around town.