Stories

Christmas Joy Amidst Poverty

What would Christmas mean to you if you were homeless? Would you look forward to Christmas dinner if every day you worried about how to feed your family? Fortunately, you are helping people in these circumstances year-round— and even more so at Christmas.

Riley* and her 16-year-old daughter live in a motel. Recently, she tried to purchase a small bag of groceries and was shocked that it cost $81! She had to leave half of her supplies at the register. Thankfully, you provide a hot lunch for Riley every day, and due to your support, she can get the groceries she needs for her family. She says, “The food I get is fresh, and there’s a great selection. And lunch here is good! It’s tasty, and it warms your stomach.” This month, you will make her Christmas merrier!

During our annual Christmas at the Mission celebration, Riley will “shop” for age-appropriate gifts for her daughter because of your generosity. We want every person who comes that day to know why we celebrate Christmas, so they will also hear the good news of Christmas from Pastor Leo Bermudez of The Center Church. We have been so grateful for Pastor Leo’s partnership this year!

In addition to gifts, hundreds of neighbors in need will receive special groceries – Christmas dinner – including whole turkeys, thanks to you. Guests will also get to choose holiday clothing for free that day!
People experiencing homelessness don’t go to a warm home with family on Christmas Day, but you will provide them with a traditional Christmas feast at the Mission.

A team from Frederick Christian Fellowship shares their holiday to make Christmas in our dining hall a spectacular event! Riley, her daughter, and all who come for lunch will enjoy a traditional holiday feast, along with gifts donated by church members. The afternoon is full of festive games, laughter and community.

Your generosity exemplifies the Christmas spirit and makes it contagious!

* Not her real name

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Shari Balodato
Faith House Program Specialist

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 Bell
Rescued Treasures Coordinator

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 Switzer
Faith House Program Coordinator

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!