We are once again humbled by the overwhelming, loving support given by you to our current and former residents and their children.
The annual Christmas party was a huge success and there were children everywhere! It means so much to them to know that they are thought about and cared for. We had many happy faces and hearts warmed with the knowledge that there are wonderful, generous, loving people in this world that care about them. "Thank You" seems so very inadequate, but I hope each of you knows that we appreciate everything more than we can ever express in words. Donors, volunteers, and staff are all a part of the circle of support that is the essence of Bridgeway.
Together we make a difference in the lives of the young women that come to us. We recently received this note and I think it says it so much better than I can:
"Thank you for all the effort you put into
Bridgeway. I really appreciate your hard work. If it had not been for
Bridgeway, I would be homeless, and I am thankful for all the things that you all
have done. Being at Bridgeway has taught me to be independent and to reach for
my goals. When I first came to Bridgeway, I thought it wasn’t the place for me
and I had to look out for myself.
Well, I still have to look out for myself, but I
have a whole crew to pick me up if I should fall. Each of the staff has made
me feel welcome and like I can actually accomplish the things I want done.
Sometimes I wonder where I would be if it weren’t
for you. How would I turn out? I never have to find out and I am very
glad because maybe I wouldn’t be so well. I never had anyone care for me the
way the staff has, and I can’t explain how grateful I am. Bridgeway has helped
me get through the hard times and supported me when I was at my lowest. So
again I thank you for all the things you’ve done and it is greatly appreciated.
Yours truly,
Rochelle"
Our house if filled to the brim with moms and babies. We had a beautiful baby girl born on Christmas day. What a sweet present!
As I write this, the news is filled with the stories of the Tsunami. It is incomprehensible to us, and our hearts ache for the people affected by it. All of us feel a great desire to do whatever we can to help. As I was thinking about this I realized that I want our residents to have the joy and blessing of knowing that they, too, can give and be a part of making a difference. It is a life lesson that is priceless.
We are going to set up some extra tasks that our young moms can do at Bridgeway and also ask them for suggestions. They can do these things knowing that each task will raise a small amount that will be sent to relief efforts. They need to understand that if we all do a little, it does, in fact, make a big difference! There are things that they can do, in the face of disaster, and they can contribute to helping others.
A few people that I have shared this idea with have been supportive of it and are helping me with the small fund that will be needed. One of our biggest goals at Bridgeway is trying to teach our residents that they are competent, capable, and creative. When they have their basic needs met, they can reach out to others in a compassionate loving way.
Our Reach for the Stars! Fundraiser on February 25 will be awesome. We have been working hard to be sure that everyone has a great time. I hope so much that I see you there. Each of you is a part of what makes it special and the most fun!