Numbers tell an important story, but more meaningful to me is the powerful story of each person represented by those numbers.
Katheryn has one of those powerful stories. After being homeless for many months, she came to Dégagé's Open Door Women's Center where she found community and a place to heal. Katheryn is quick to talk about the many ways Dégagé's staff and volunteers impacted her life and helped her to renew her faith in Jesus, but what Katheryn could never fully understand is the impact she had on us. As we walked alongside her, we were the ones who were blessed. She modeled for us the power of prayer, the need to be patient, and the importance of perseverance. Katheryn's story is evidence that joy is possible in the midst of hardship and that it is more blessed to give than to receive.
I am excited to share that Katheryn began a new chapter in her story this month. With great joy and thankfulness, we rejoiced with Katheryn as she moved into her own apartment. The excitement on her face while she proudly held up her key is beyond words.
Katheryn developed a strong sense of community here and assured us she will come back often to offer words of encouragement to the women in the Open Door who are coming behind her. Thank you for partnering with us and giving Katheryn, and many people like her, the gift of hope!
By Marge Palmerlee
The Rapidian, a program of the 501(c)3 nonprofit Community Media Center, relies on the community’s support to help cover the cost of training reporters and publishing content.
We need your help.
If each of our readers and content creators who values this community platform help support its creation and maintenance, The Rapidian can continue to educate and facilitate a conversation around issues for years to come.
Please support The Rapidian and make a contribution today.