When Rose* first rang the doorbell at Faith House, she was terrified and exhausted. She might not have had the courage to approach the door if she wasn’t desperate to provide stability for her children, ages five and eight. The three of them clutched hands when the door opened. The children looked like deer in headlights.
“God has taken my ashes and turned them into something beautiful*. I want to help other women experience the same thing.” It has only been six years since Ashley Garland escaped an abusive marriage, also rescuing her three-year-old son. Since then, she has attended Bible college, worked with at-risk youth, and pastored a church.
Melissa’s dread of working on Christmas morning evaporated as she realized they were all family. Even though she loves the women and children guest residents,
Julia* has been in jail during several recent Christmases, and it was certainly NOT the “most wonderful time of the year” for her. Upon her release, she had nowhere to go and found herself homeless.
When Erica entered Faith House, she displayed an impenetrable exterior, keeping people at a distance. She distrusted everybody.
Shari Badolato is the Program Specialist for Fath House. Before joining the Mission staff, she was a church Kids and Family Pastor. Shari enjoys hand lettering and going to the beach and movies with her family. She says, “I am grateful for the hope I have found in Jesus and have a passion for helping women find wholeness and healing in Him. I consider it a true privilege to partner with The Faith House.”
Brenda coordinates the volunteers who sort clothes and assist guests in Rescued Treasures.
She has been working with people in poverty since 1981. She says, “First, I befriend them. Then I find out what they need and refer them to the program that could best help. I only help people who want help, and only in the ways they want help. Some people have addiction problems and don’t want to leave the street. I’m still their friend.”
Carol coordinates the programs at Faith House, working with residents to help them develop skills for independence. Carol also runs Crossed Bridges with her husband Jonathan. She enjoys playing any sport with a ball, crocheting, bike riding, and spending time with her husband and five children.
“He who loves God must love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21) explains what wakes Carol up in the morning to begin a new day; being able to serve the Lord while working with people, whether it be administratively or relationally. She loves hearing the testimonies of how Jesus has changed people’s lives, especially because He’s done so much for her!
