As much as I wanted to give up, I still had four kids who wanted a home. They deserved to know what it means to be stable.
My name is Derricsa. I’m convinced that your Pathways of Hope support was an answered prayer for my family. You’ll see why in a moment. But first, let me back up and explain the situation we were facing in 2020.
I’d focused all my energies on raising my four children—Serenity, Jedidiah, Isyss and my youngest, D’Cairo—without support from their father. But we could only afford an apartment in an unsafe neighborhood where bed bugs lived in the walls and the landlord ignored maintenance requests.
We moved in with my father to regroup and figure out a way forward. I had a Section 8 housing voucher to cover rent on our next apartment, plus a small income in the form of Social Security Disability Insurance. But I didn’t have enough money for the deposit.
As much as I wanted to give up, I still had four kids who wanted a home. They deserved to know what it means to be stable. After much prayer, I called 211. They put me in touch with Denver Rescue Mission. And even though I didn’t realize it yet, that phone call put my family on a pathway toward hope.
I found out about Family Rescue Ministry, a program that helps families secure stable housing by providing funding toward a security deposit and first month’s rent payment. I applied immediately.
A friendly voice from the Mission called back to tell me they accepted me in the program. They gave me a check, and I was able to give it to the landlord. My kids were ecstatic when we walked into our new home together for the first time as a family. It felt so good to have confirmation of what I’ve always known: prayer works.
Besides the financial support, Family Rescue Ministry connected me with community mentors to help our family maintain stability. My mentors, Mike and Kathy, have become indispensable resources. They’re available when I need someone to talk to or pray with.
I never feel judged after those conversations. And in truth, my mentors have come to feel like family.
Once a month, I visit the Mission’s Ministry Outreach Center (MOC) to pick up clothing, hygiene items, undergarments and cleaning supplies for the new apartment. I even received donated beds for my kids from the MOC.
Once I had a roof over my head, I was
able to focus on raising my children to
know and love God.
Once I had a roof over my head, I was able to focus on raising my children to know and love God. Next, I’m planning to pursue a career in health and beauty care. I want to show my kids what’s possible, despite all the setbacks.
When I look back at my life’s journey, I see that prayer has been a constant source of strength. My blessings have come from God. I wouldn’t have this place if it weren’t for me praying consistently every day. And families like mine wouldn’t have this incredible support network without Pathways of Hope donors like you giving every month. I’m so very grateful for your kindness.
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