The Six Stewardship Principles

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"Stewardship Is Service."

The strength of SMS Essentials is measured by more than the number of donations received. It is measured by how responsibly those resources are entrusted, managed, and placed into meaningful service.

These principles establish the standard for every donation accepted, every resource prepared, and every item distributed through SMS Essentials.

SMS Essentials does not collect items simply to build inventory. 

Donations should be accepted because they are safe, functional, and likely to meet a practical need.

Veterans should receive items that are clean, presentable, and ready for use. 

Condition, organization, and presentation reflect the respect behind the program.

Resources entrusted to SMS should be handled responsibly. 

Useful items should be returned to service, while damaged, unsafe, or unsuitable items should be declined or disposed of appropriately.

Items should be placed according to legitimate need, not convenience, preference, or pressure to clear storage.

Donors, veterans, and community partners should be able to trust how SMS accepts, stores, prepares, and distributes donated resources.

The purpose of SMS Essentials is not simply to transfer goods.

It is to provide practical support that helps veterans establish or maintain stability.