2010 Year End Summary
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    We had revolving door experiences this year with only one resident graduating from the live-in program in 2010. How this generation has changed from prior households that we have managed in the past. There are many more emotional and mental challenges in these young lives. It is rare to find those who are not on some form of medication for social and/or mental disorders. We have great concerns for what the future holds for those who are resisting the Spirit in this hour.

    We are counseling, mentoring, teaching Bible Studies, coordinating services with other organizations and investing time and prayer into those in Community Outreach, Affordable Housing and the Aftercare Program. We currently have about 30 individuals in Community Outreach and almost 100 in the Aftercare Program. This includes the children and families of those reached, as many times we see a ripple effect after reaching out to one member of a family. Many of the families we have reached are desperate for support and advice. It is much more socially acceptable to be pregnant outside of wedlock now than when we first began the ministry. It no longer carries the stigma it once did so many parents are trying to handle these issues inside the family. However, many families appreciate the extra help and it provides a great opportunity to share the love of Christ.

    Aftercare has been very interesting this year. We have been overjoyed to see prodigals come back that were estranged for many years and women who were in cycles of sin break the chains of bondage. We have also grieved as we have seen those who have chosen the broad way experience severe consequences. Some of them have been challenged with serious health issues, and others are struggling with mental and emotional bondages. We sure do appreciate your prayers as we come along side of these individuals as they struggle. One of the most startling experiences we had with Aftercare was the unexpected visit of a woman who lived with us more than 20 years ago. She had placed her baby for adoption while in the program and her stay with us was rather brief and uneventful. She seemed to be very unaffected by the home and environment that Jesus Cares Ministries provided. This same woman who visited us this year was grown up and eager to share how much it influenced her many years ago to be under our roof listening and watching. She left us with an offering that was far more than what she could probably afford. It was a sacrifice that we humbly received from a very grateful heart. I had often thought about this young woman and what she thought about the home.

    Our plans for the new year are to continue holding annual retreats through Mentor Moms, provide various workshops and Bible study groups, offer free counsel for couples and families in Aftercare and Community Outreach, and continue the work of revising and refining the Affordable Housing Program. We are planning on visiting with pastors and leaders in the church community to bring a greater awareness to the opportunities that are available through the Affordable Housing Program. It has been a productive outreach and we are thankful that God has given us direction for the four-plex. We will also continue to be a vital link to John and Kay West in Swaziland, visiting and assisting as the funds become available.

    Thank you so much for allowing us to be instruments available in the hands of God. It is a joy to share the power of God’s unchanging Word to restore the whole man.

JESUS CARES,