Lanjian Zhao risked his life to practice freedom of speech in China and suffered horrible consequences from Chinese authorities. Now he volunteers, giving out the groceries you help provide to the community through our Food Distribution Center.
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.
When Howard and Lynn started volunteering with us 16 years ago, they had no idea their service would blossom into the ministry it is today. Howard explains, “I thought I’d just plop some food on plates, and that would be it. I didn’t know there would be all this opportunity to care for people!”
Brenda Bell is a celebrity in Frederick. She may not be well-known among the rich and elite, but she is so famous among those experiencing homelessness that they regularly approach her for help. Fortunately, you have made it possible for the Mission to hire her to minister to “the least of these.”
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!
