Wheeler Mission's Blog

Every one of our donors has a story, like Steve who sent a donation and a note a little while back. He told us that he spent some time in jail in 2001 after being arrested for driving while intoxicated. He was in bad shape back then – he had lost everything due to his drinking and admits he was an atheist and without hope.

With nowhere else to go, he came to Wheeler Mission when he was released from jail, and stayed for a few weeks until he could find housing and employment. He thanked us again for the hospitality offered him ten years ago. While he says he appreciates the food, clothing, and shelter – he is most thankful that he was introduced to Christ. He continues his Christian walk, is sober, and is now a regular donor.

As a Wheeler donor - what’s your story?

Rick

We receive lots of mail from people who have never been homeless themselves, but whose lives have been turned upside down because someone they love has fallen into homelessness.

One such letter stopped me in my tracks. The women sent a gift with a one-phrase note that said, “my son is out there.” I heard desperation in those words.

Imagine this scenario with me. You are a mom with a son whom you love deeply. He grows into young adulthood and you watch him struggle – perhaps with mental illness or addiction. You try to help him, but he just slips away and eventually he cuts off all contact with you. You don’t know where he is or if he is safe. You pray. And you hope that somehow, someone will show him kindness.

That’s probably when this mom wrote this note. She prayed for her son who just might be at Wheeler Mission that night. She sent a gift because she deeply loves someone who is homeless and it was her way of reaching out to him.

Next time you see a homeless person, remember - they are someone’s son or daughter. I encourage you to say a prayer for them, for those who love them, and maybe, you could even pray for this mom.

Rick