Jer. 17:7: “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose hope is the Lord.”
It has now been over a year since a scared, lonely, fearful young woman walked through the Family Promise doors. That young woman was me, Cheri. I was unsure of all the rules, unsure of life, and unsure of what my future would hold, not to mention my faltering faith. That quickly changed once I was willing to allow the program to start working in my life. I realized in order to receive all of the benefits from Family Promise I would have to give 100% of me all of the time.
Over these last few months I have visited over 10 churches, 100 volunteers, and established connections that could never be replaced. I have made many lifelong friends, reconnected spiritually to our Father and learned that no matter my circumstances, I AM WORTHY!
When I began this journey I had no transportation, no housing, and no employment, a boat without a paddle. That’s what Family Promise, now 5 months later, has been for me, my life raft. I now have acquired a 2004 Chevy Impala, full time employment with benefits, a two bedroom apartment, a relationship with God that will not shatter, and a found a home in a local church, extending my family.
Many of you are aware that I have been recently dealing with custody issues regarding Bianca. Truth be told, in the beginning of the “battle” I thought all hope was lost. However, it has been through the support and encouragement of all the churches and volunteers that have helped me hang on to God’s promises that have allowed me to continue to persevere. Currently, I am able to see my daughter every other weekend and by God’s grace and mercy she will be home within this week.
I would like to sincerely thank everyone that is involved with and believes in Family Promise. Without each one of you I would not be who I am today. I have learned how God can work for my good even through the pain. The key for me was to learn how to trust Him in the storm and patiently wait for the rainbow.
I now look forward to continue my journey with each one of you and hope to encourage others who come into the program. Now walking into a new chapter proud, encouraged, blessed, happy, alive, and never alone!
Galatians 6:9: “So don’t get tired of doing what is good. Don’t get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.”