“Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’” (Ellen White, The Ministry of Healing, p. 143.4)

This profound quote beautifully captures the heart of our mission: to meet people where they are, care for their needs and share the love of Jesus in tangible ways. Only then, after gaining their trust, do we gently invite them to follow Him. Right now, our community faces an overwhelming challenge—one that offers a unique opportunity to live out this principle of compassion and service.

It breaks my heart to share that the local domestic violence shelter that once served as a lifeline for women and children fleeing dangerous situations has had to close its doors due to a lack of funding. This safe haven is gone, and the gap it leaves behind feels daunting. Yet even in the shadow of this loss, there are sparks of hope—bright, shining reminders of compassion and resilience.

One of those sparks is the director of a state-run organization with which we have often partnered. Despite her already demanding job serving a different population, she has made it her personal mission to step in for these women and children, along with those who have been victims of human trafficking. Quietly and tirelessly, she connects them with resources and people, ensures they are safe and hidden and works to secure shelter with trusted women or families. Her dedication is truly inspiring. She stretches her limited time and energy to meet an ever-growing need, going above and beyond to make sure these families are not forgotten.

Recently, she reached out to our community Kindness Club about a young mom who had escaped a terrifying situation with her toddler and newborn. The mother’s story was harrowing—she was in grave danger—but the director found her temporary housing. Still, there was an urgent need for basic essentials: diapers, food, blankets and clothing. I was struck by how frail and exhausted she was, a stark reminder of just how much these women endure.

Sadly, this isn’t an isolated story. The need is growing, and while our Kindness Club is doing everything we can, the cost of providing for these families far exceeds what we can manage through our congregation, AFM project funds and community donations.

As someone trained in stress and trauma support, I have had the privilege of visiting women like this mom. Alongside another dedicated woman from the Kindness Club, we have offered comfort, encouragement and hope to these women during some of the darkest moments of their lives.

Many carry a deep, undeserved sense of shame, which only adds to the challenges of trying to recover and rebuild their lives. The weight of their trauma presses heavily on their hearts. Still, it is nearly impossible to focus on emotional healing when immediate needs—like food, shelter and safety—demand their full attention.

Once those urgent needs are met, we find meaningful opportunities to introduce these women to the One who inspires compassion and service—Jesus Christ. Whether through a prayer, a word of encouragement, or a relatable story from the Bible, we gently point them toward the source of true hope and healing. It’s a privilege to follow Christ’s example: meeting their needs, earning their trust and lovingly inviting them to experience His transformative love.

Our city leaders have expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the work our Kindness Club is doing, recognizing its positive impact on the community. The vice mayor and other officials have personally reached out to our community services leader when they have become aware of urgent needs. However, the reality is that the city’s resources are stretched thin, leaving much of the responsibility on our shoulders.

To help bridge this gap, we have set up a Kindness Fund—inspired by Dorcas, the woman in the book of Acts who was known for her kindness and generosity. This fund is dedicated to meeting urgent needs and giving families the stability and support they so desperately need during times of crisis.

We would love for you to be part of this mission. Your prayers and financial support can change lives. Even a small gift to our Kindness Club—whether one-time or monthly—can make a big difference by helping us plan and provide consistent care. Every act of kindness is a spark of hope, bringing light to these families and reminding them that they are not alone. Please mark your donation Shqiptaret – Kindness Fund.

Thank you for considering how you can help. Together, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus, sharing His love in ways that heal, restore and transform.

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