Time is now to help

Dear W.C.,

I am a single father raising my teenage daughter. My wife passed away from cancer five years ago so it has been my daughter and I since then. My daughter suffers from mental illness and anxiety since her mother passed and was recently hospitalized when she threatened suicide. It has been very difficult to go through this and to watch her suffer. Nothing I say or do seem to help until she began to see a new doctor that is located 45 minutes away. We go to therapy together twice a week. I cannot stop taking her now as I finally see a change in her outlook for the first time in five years. Due to all the emergency calls I received over the past few years, I have missed a lot of work. I have used up all my sick and vacation days so now missed days mean no pay. My boss is understanding but I can't expect him to pay me beyond the paid time off I already received. Gas to all these appointments is straining my budget. Then I had a blow out and had to replace all my tires because they were in such bad shape. There went our rent money. We have been eating noodles and PBJ sandwiches for the past week because that is all I can afford. I would be so grateful if you could help us with a few grocery and gas gift cards. That would help us get through the next few weeks until I am paid again. Thank you for your consideration.

Dear Readers,

I called this father to see how we could help lift the burden and stress he was under. We could not remove the pain of loss, but we could help to ease the pains of hunger and worry.

The father was greatly relieved when he learned it was The Time is Now to Help calling and not a bill collector. He admitted he had been receiving calls about unpaid medical bills and his overdue utility bill. After we talked for over an hour and I did a lot of listening and note taking, we dove into his financial situation and his budget.

I found there was a lot more need than just the gas and grocery gift cards he had requested. I asked questions about each item he had on his budget. The tires and other necessary expenses he had not mentioned had caused him to fall behind in his car payment and utilities. His daughter needed glasses, and he had gone to the emergency room with chest pain, that turned out to be stress from worrying about his daughter and their financial situation.

We spoke about learning to manage his stress and the importance of him taking care of himself, since he was the only person that could raise his daughter. They had no other family to help. The father began to cry from the weight of worry he carried. He shared how his daughter was finally getting back on track and had not called him away from his job for the past few weeks. I reminded him this was a step in the right direction, and we would help him take steps in the right direction as well.

I went over the list I had made while we spoke. We would pay their overdue rent, utilities and car payment. We also would include gift cards for gas and groceries. When I learned his daughter needed a winter coat and clothes, I included gift cards for those items. The father began to cry again but I could tell these were tears of relief. Relief from the constant stress of poverty compounded by the many stresses in his life. We together helped to remove some of these stresses and brought support where he needed it most.

When I contacted this father two months later, I was happy to hear about the continued improvement in his daughter. He was relieved to no longer be called away from work and constantly worrying about his daughter's health. Their budget was being met comfortably. The father told me to tell all of you, "Thank you for helping my daughter and I get back on track. This has truly changed our lives."

Thank you for helping us provide poverty relief throughout our communities. Please donate at this time as all your donations will be matched by the Fall 2024 Helping Hand Up $50,000 Matching Grant, doubling your donation. Thank "You" and God Bless "You".

Health & Happiness, Love & GOD Bless Everyone, Sal

Please Help: There are many coming to us in desperation. Our good fellow creations need our compassion. Together we make a big difference. Make checks payable to: The Time Is Now to Help, P.O. Box 1, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. The Time Is Now to Help is a federally recognized 501©3 charitable organization. You will receive a tax deductible, itemized thank you receipt showing how 100% of your donation was used for providing poverty relief.

Please visit our website to read more of our past and current columns and/or to make a donation: www.timeisnowtohelp.org Please go to the home page, follow the yellow highlighted link that says WC Letters to see current and past columns.

A Very Special Thank You: Kunes Country Auto Group, Paul Ziegler, Clarence W. and Marilyn Schawk Donor Fund, Jeff Martin, Linda West, Catherine Schwenn, Mary Fitzgerald, Carolann Lippert, Ziegler Charitable Foundation, Jim and Lynette Heimann, Paper Dolls, Dale and Gail Folkers, Thomas Morrissy, Lake Geneva Area Realty, Knights of Columbus Lake Geneva, Joan Baron, Dr. Mark and Cynthia Brower, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Vanderveld, Al and Dorothy Hermansen, Larry and Kelly Happ, Carol Brathol, William Antti, Joanne Zeasman, Church of Jesus Christ LDS, St. Charles Congregation, St. Mary Catholic Parish, J.N. Hackman, Kelleher Family, LLC, Shari and James Loback, John and Rita Race, Edward and Jodi Jacobsen, Anthony and Sandra Perri, George and Lauretta Clettenberg, Bryan and Dawn Mann, Beth and Jody Rendall, George and Sandra Murphy, all of our anonymous donors and ALL of you who support The Time Is Now to Help donation boxes. Anyone who would like a Time Is Now donation box in your business, please call (262) 249-7000.

Prayer Chain: The power of prayer and positive thoughts comes from the true healer, our Lord answering our prayers. Please pray for healing for the following people: Brian, Mike, Sylvia, Megan, Kayla, Maria C., Judy, Scott, Annie, Marilyn, Brandon, Helen, Dennis, Mary, Joseph, Jordan, Jean, Tom L., Dr. Peter, Matthew, Pam E., Jenene B., John S., Patricia H., Wendy, Eric, Anthony, Mary, Charlie, Tom P., Christina, Billy, Mike, Cheryl, Bryan E., Betty, Ellie, Concetta, Cheryl, Kirubel M., and Wanda L.

Please visit: www.timeisnowtohelp.org

Luxury homes on the market in Southern Wisconsin

Welcome to your dream home! This gorgeous 4 bed/3.5 bath property is perfectly situated on a .5 acre lot w/80ft of frontage on beautiful Lake Tichigan. The main living areas are bright & airy, with expansive windows showcasing the stunning lake views. Enjoy the luxurious main floor master w/private en-suite. Upstairs is home to 3 spacious bedrooms, full bath, & flexible loaf. The finished walkout basement features, 2nd kitchen, massive rec space, & screen porch, all perfect for entertaining. Enjoy tranquil views from both the upper deck & custom paver patio. Your backyard paradise awaits w/direct access to the lake, ideal for boating, fishing, or just relaxing. The 3 car attached garage plus shed has room for all your toys. It's time for you to come enjoy lake living at its finest.

Welcome to your waterfront dream! This beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom channel front home offers direct access to the highly sought-after Chain O'Lakes, with the channel leading directly to Pistakee Lake, providing endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation. Step inside and be captivated by the open-concept living area, adorned with natural light and panoramic water views. The gourmet kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances, large countertops, and a large island, are perfect for entertaining family and friends. The main floor boasts a spacious master suite and an en-suite bathroom with a soaking tub, walk-in shower, and dual vanities. Two additional bedrooms share a modern bathroom, providing plenty of space for guests. Outside, the expansive decks provide the perfect setting for outdoor dining, relaxing, or enjoying stunning sunsets over the water. The private dock ensures easy lake access for boating or fishing, making this home a perfect lakeside retreat. Don't miss out on this exceptional waterfront property with breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, and a lifestyle that is second to none!

Wait until you see this one! There are not enough words to describe this perfect family oasis. With four bedrooms, a first floor office, formal living room, huge family room w/ FP, & an eat-in kitchen, there is ample space for friends & family. Downstairs you will find an awesome rec room w/ wet bar & a flex room that could be used as a guest room or exercise room. But, I saved the best for last. Head out the patio doors from the kitchen, & oh my goodness, you will find a STUNNING back yard, complete w/ a heated inground pool, fire pit, bar, & hot tub! Situated on over half an acre, and just a stone's throw from the lake, what more could you ask for? Whether this is your full time residence or vacation home, you will never want to leave!

Discover your dream country home, set on 1+ acres of private land surrounded by lush farm fields. This inviting residence features a spacious main level filled with natural light, showcasing an open-concept layout perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy morning coffee or evening sunsets on the expansive deck, where you can soak in the peaceful rural views. The lower level offers a versatile 2-bedroom multi-family suite, complete with its own kitchen, living space, and full bath—ideal for guests, extended family, or potential rental income. The heated workshop, perfect for pursuing hobbies or completing projects year-round features additional upper-level storage!

This stunning all-brick ranch home, set on 2.65 scenic acres just 10 miles from Lake Geneva, offers elegance and comfort in every detail. Featuring soaring Pella windows, maple Bellawood floors, and six-panel doors, the home exudes quality. The main level includes 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a spacious living room, kitchen, and dining area, all accented by two fireplaces and solid surface counters. The walk-out finished lower level boasts a family room with a wet bar, a 4th bedroom, and a full bath. A three-car attached garage with a wheelchair-accessible ramp, marble floors, and a concrete driveway complete this serene countryside retreat.

Enjoy breathtaking sunset views from this 3-bed, 2-bath lakefront property with 76 feet of frontage This prime location offers endless potential Whether you're looking to remodel the existing home while residing in it, or envision a complete teardown for your dream retreat, with an ''as-is'' sale, this is a rare opportunity to create a custom lakefront haven in one of the area's most desirable settings. Two hours from Chicago, 45 minutes from Madison or Milwaukee. Located near the Kettle Moraine State Forest, experience all the area has to offer-hiking, biking, horseback riding, golf, cross country skiing, and snowmobile trails. You can enjoy water sports, fishing and approximately 10 miles of shoreline on 705 acre Whitewater Lake Only 10 minutes to town and UWW. 1/2 mile to nature trails

This exquisite 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath luxury ranch home combines high-end design with unparalleled functionality. Step into an open floor plan where vaulted ceilings and hardwood floors span the living spaces, creating an inviting, spacious feel. Anchoring the main living area is a striking electric fireplace framed by custom built-ins, while the opposite end showcases a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and a center island-perfect for both cooking and gathering. A bright and airy lanai extends from the living area, offering a serene space to enjoy the outdoors year-round. The primary bedroom suite provides a touch of luxury with a spacious walk-in closet, an accessible full bath featuring an accessible shower, and a separate soaking tub. This thoughtfully designed home also includes a formal dining room, a dedicated home office, a first-floor laundry room, and an oversized two-car garage with ample storage. A full unfinished basement, complete with a stair lift, offers boundless potential with a rough-in for a bathroom and a large wall-safe for added security. Optional yacht club membership provides access to a nearby boat slip on Dunn's Lake, adding a touch of adventure to this extraordinary home.

The Details are in the Design. Too many amazing architectural design features to completely list out- reclaimed hardwood throughout, 200 year old Vintage beam for the mantel, mahogany entertainment center cabinets, circa 1880s antique store counter with marble, Tasmanian Green granite, a full dog wash station, 2 laundry rooms for convenience the list goes on and on. 4 bedrooms upstairs with 3 full bathrooms, all en-suite. Owners suite has an semi private step up entrance from the hallway with one of the 5 fireplaces, full finished walkout basement with 2 additional bedrooms and a full bathroom. Media Room with walkout private patio, Workout room, lots of storage. Less than 5 minutes to Metra and the Historic Woodstock Square with nightlife and cute shops. Walking path to elementary school. Surrounded by a wooded area with creek owned by HOA.

Magnificent home on Lake Antioch features three floors including the walkout basement of pure Luxury Living. The views from your 2 story deck are serene as you gaze over quiet Lake Antioch. This home was remodeled a few years ago from the Brazilian walnut floors to the well-appointed kitchen and bathrooms. Main floor primary bedroom features a well-appointed bathroom. Upstairs the two bedrooms attach to a full bathroom and provide a large loft for office or play area. All furniture on the 2nd floor will remain with the home. The finished basement provides an additional bedroom, craft/music room, full bathroom with shower and very nice recreation area as well as sliders to a covered deck. The pier stays with the home and the association provides grass mowing and snow removal so you have more time to enjoy the lake.

This stunning executive-style home is located in the sought after Shonas Highlands neighborhood of Sun Prairie. It boasts 5+ bedrooms and over 5,000 sq ft of well-thought-out living space. The main floor has maple and marble floors, cathedral ceiling in the great room, formal dining area, and a breakfast nook overlooking the expansive backyard. Unwind by one of two gas fireplaces, including a cozy retreat in the primary bedroom. The ensuite bath features a whirlpool tub & separate shower. The expansive loft area, complete with theater and workout room, offers endless possibilities. Entertain with ease in the sprawling lower-level rec room. Lower level bedrooms are non-conforming due to window height & larger room does not have a closet currently.

Experience timeless charm, convenience & character in one of Madison's most beloved neighborhoods. This meticulously maintained, 3 bed/2.5 bath, mid-century modern Ranch is a testament to the pride & care of its owners of 42 years. The bright & open floor plan boasts a spacious main level owners suite w/ built-in closets & a private 1/2 bath. The dine-in kitchen is equipped w/ SS apps & an inviting peninsula w/ breakfast bar, making it a perfect space for both casual meals & entertaining. The charming LL provides a versatile space for your creative renovation ideas, including a cozy rec. room w/ wood-burning fireplace & a full bath. Feat. a fenced-in backyard w/ pristine work shed & raised garden (both w/ electric). Close to bus lines, Midvale Library, dining & schools.

Brand New & Waiting for you!! The stunning "McKinley" nestled in coveted Quarry Ridge community. Step into this inviting abode boasting a spacious open floorplan designed to welcome you home! As you enter, the foyer beckons you towards the expansive Great Room w/ lofty 9ft ceilings & bathed in natural light. Prepare culinary delights in the gourmet kitchen, complete w/ a sleek island, elegant Quartz countertops, & an oversized pantry to fulfill all your storage needs. Retreat to the luxurious primary suite featuring tile shower w/ niche, double vanity, & spacious walk-in closet. Generously proportioned bedrooms 2 & 3, are complemented by a full bath, offering ample space & comfort! With the added bonus of a 3-car garage this home exudes a sense of completeness that feels like HOME!

Proposed construction of the magnificent Lincoln Plan at Sienna Hills in Mt. Horeb! Located right off of Military Ridge Trail, enjoy cul de sac living with lookout basement exposure. This monumental home features a cathedral ceiling in the Great Room with a wall full of windows inviting in natural light & views of the ponds and fields out back. The kitchen is designed for entertaining with an expansive 7 foot island, plentiful cabinetry with soft close doors & drawers accented with crown molding, and huge walk-in pantry! Enjoy the possibilities of 1,740 sq ft in the unfinished walk-out basement with rough-in plumbing for future bathroom. Have peace of mind with our quality-built homes and exceptional 1-2-10 home warranty!!! Plan and design can still be selected.

Proposed construction of the stunning "McKinley" nestled in Sienna Hills neighborhood of Mt. Horeb. Right off of the Military Ridge Trail, step into this inviting abode boasting a spacious open floorplan designed to welcome you home! As you enter, the expansive Great Room w/ lofty 9ft ceilings & bathed in natural light. Prepare culinary delights in the gourmet kitchen, complete w/ a sleek island, elegant Quartz countertops, & an oversized pantry to fulfill all your storage needs. Retreat to the luxurious primary suite featuring tile shower w/ niche, double vanity, & spacious walk-in closet. This large homesite offers lookout basement exposure for a nice bright lower level! With the added bonus of a 3-car garage this home feels like HOME! Plan and design can vary based on what is selected.

Seller is offering $5,000 closing credit with full price offer accepted before Monday 11/11! This spacious open layout brings everyone together with style and grace. You are greeted by an abundance of natural light streaming in from the expansive Great Room! Primary suite with Tile walk in shower, grand double vanity, spacious walk in. Sizeable bedrooms 2 & 3 split by full bath. LVP in Main living areas, larger than standard windows to allow for even more natural light & amazing views of gorgeous sunsets with front of home facing West! Come home to the 33' x 24' 3-car garage that can store it all! Enjoy peace of mind with an included warranty: 1 year -whole house, 2 year -all mechanicals, 10 year -structural, 15 year dry basement warranty!

Showings begin 11/1. Experience the pinnacle of luxury living at The Loraine, steps from the Capitol with stunning views of Lake Mendota! This spacious condo offers an open, light-filled layout featuring beautiful birch floors, an elegant tray ceiling, & cozy fireplace. The kitchen dazzles with maple cabinetry & sleek granite countertops. Retreat to the expansive primary suite with abundant custom-built closet space & a remodeled spa-inspired bathroom featuring marble finishes with a separate tub & shower. The generous den offers endless versatility as a home office or optional second bedroom, along with a beautifully updated full bathroom for added convenience. With a private storage unit & oversized heated underground parking spot, this condo provides the ultimate downtown lifestyle!

Gorgeous ranch with impressive curb appeal & sleek finishes! Fall in love with the floor-to-ceiling stacked-stone gas FP, offering a stunning focal point for the open-concept living area. The kitchen will delight any culinary lover with its gas range, oversized island w/ seating, & walk-in pantry. There are plenty of places to entertain with the walk-out LL offering an expansive living space w/ a wet bar, patio for grilling, & composite deck for enjoying outdoor meals. Unwind in the spa-like primary bath showcasing a luxurious soaker tub, or on the screened-in porch offering excellent sunset views. Other features include ML laundry, outdoor kennel space, & a fenced-in yard. Premium location backing to a new park & peaceful retention pond with easy access to Verona & West Madison amenities!

Welcome to your dream home! This stunning 2-story residence features a brand new stained deck, perfect for outdoor gatherings in the amazing backyard. Inside, the beautiful kitchen boasts ample dining space, while the office/flex room comes with brand new flooring. With 5 spacious bedrooms and a finished basement, there's plenty of room for everyone. The basement includes a cozy living area with surround sound, a gym (or another flex room), and a full bar for entertaining. The heated, fully insulated garage ensures comfort year-round. Located in a fantastic neighborhood, this home offers an unbeatable location close to all amenities. Don't miss out on this exceptional property!

Discover this charming ranch home filled with sunlight in a desirable west side location. The main floor boasts fresh paint and a kitchen updated with new quartz countertops. Additional features include a great backyard deck and patio, main and lower level fireplaces, main floor laundry, and primary suite w/ full bath and walk-in closet. The walk-out basement provides extra living area and convenience. This home combines modern updates with a prime location, making it perfect for comfortable and stylish living. Walking distance to parks, trails, and 11 minutes from Epic. Come see this house for yourself!

Time is now to help

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