‘State of Gratitude’ inspires help for residents in need

‘State of Gratitude’ inspires help for residents in need

Being in a state of gratitude can help suppress worry, guilt, fear and depression.

When times are tough like they are now, grace seems an effective way to cope.

It’s a simple idea that doesn’t require any physical or mental work.

Grace is found by appreciating what you have, offering help and treating yourself and others with kindness.

But these days, grace could seem elusive to those struggling to feed and house their families.

People out of work because of the pandemic are behind on rent, utilities and other bills.

Many who’ve been negatively impacted by COVID-19 are also regularly out of food, too.

Osceola County is considering working with local nonprofits currently addressing food insecurity in the community. The county has possession of a building and a warehouse on Central Avenue in Kissimmee, which could be a place where nonprofit food distribution operations could be expanded to meet the growing demand.

 Giving a hand up to those in need essentially is a one-man mission for Kissimmee resident and native Christopher Bilyk.

With an increase in drug use having turned out to be a side-effect of the pandemic, Bilyk was moved to take action.

“There are people who are really struggling now,” said Bilyk, a former addict who turned his life around and wants to help others do the same.

“There are increases in suicide-related incidents, relapses, hospital visits and overdoses,” he said.

Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control show that since the onset of the pandemic in spring 40 percent of all adults in the

U.S. report challenges with substance abuse, mental health or both.

“For me, it was really important that we met that need as quickly as possible,” Bliyk said.

That’s why he created a line of T-shirts, hats, water bottles and gym bags emblazoned with “State of Gratitude.”

It’s a message he hopes is worth sharing and wearing.

Twenty-five percent of the net profits from “State of Gratitude” merchandise go to helping people fight addiction, he said.

The heart of his mission is to provide grants to help people overcome the financial challenges they face during their recovery.

 He said profits have been higher than expected since launching in May, which allowed him to provide the inaugural grant sooner than planned.

Kevin Voeltz was the first recipient of a “State of Gratitude” grant for $500. From sleeping in his car to finding work, his challenges are many.

But Voeltz said he’s got hope now, and he doesn’t feel so lonely any more thanks to Bliyk and the help of “State of Gratitude.”

“A lot of this fight is something we do together. It’s not something that we do on our own,” Bliyk said.

If you or someone you know struggle with addiction and/or mental health problems, assistance from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is available at 1-800-662-HELP(4357).