moving right along!

Hi everyone,

I've been out of town on personal business but got back Tuesday and hit the ground running! I hope you are all well and enjoying your summer!

If you saw my first picture of the ministry house, you'll notice in this picture that the main room now has a beautiful new coat of paint and curtains. The second picture is of my counseling office. Since this picture we've added chairs and made it a warm, inviting place to come. There are shelves behind the curtain where we are storing donations of household items to give to those who are transitioning into their own place.

In this ministry every day is different and an adventure! The San Carlos Hotel (which has been low-income housing for decades) has announced to their residents that they will be closing in September of 2023. That seems like a long way away, but not when you realize the shortage of low-income housing in the area. Most places have a 6-9 month waiting list. I am working with several people to help them apply for acceptable, affordable housing. I've been in some places that are charging $450/month that are really scary (pertaining to safety and health). It's sad that the conditions are so bad, and they are all full. If they were shut down the homeless situation would only be worse. We definitely have a problem! I took a gal who was displaced 2 months ago to look at an apartment. It was clean, but 250sf for $450/month. It isn't even wide enough to put a twin bed in. We talked about maybe a real small futon, and she's considering taking it. She lit up with a big smile when we looked at it and said, "It's sure better than being out there!" Every day is a reminder of how grateful I should be for all the blessings I have. Even the blessing of just having a fork, air conditioning, comfort. Please forgive me if I seem insensitive at times to the grumblings about life from those who have, I see people every day who are grateful for the little things - like a bottle of water.

We are praising God that one person (who is coming from really tough circumstances) has found a place to live and secured employment. I am already rounding up furniture and household items for him. What a Joy to watch what God is doing in his life! God is opening doors for him to have a new start on life, and I am confident that there are many brighter days in his future!

We shared the Gospel with another man we have been working with and gave him a Bible. He called and had questions he wanted to ask the pastor who referred him to us, so I gave a ride. After their talk he received Jesus as his Lord and Savior!!!! Praise God! He now is attending services along with his girlfriend.

I am reminded of Luke 4:18 where Jesus said, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed Me to preach the Gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord." To God be the Glory!!! Praise His Holy Name! What a blessing to have a front row seat to watch Him work miracles!

My love and prayers to you all, may God bless you abundantly, Laurie