Could Not Stay
A single mother of five children, Miley recently lost her youngest child. He was tragically hit by a car at their home. Understandably, Miley struggled with severe depression and panic attacks. Miley came to ECCCM and met with Keely, case manager.
“I lost my job because I could no longer function normally after losing my baby.” Miley continued, “Now, I need help with rent, and I am struggling to provide food for my other children. We have moved into a new place. With the deposit and first month’s rent, I don’t have enough savings left, but I could not stay where I lost my child. I know I need help. I must do better for my other children. I have to make changes and move forward. If I can’t, my family will not only be hungry, but we will also be homeless. Can you please help me?”
Keely provided help with Miley’s rent. She put her family on a food program to help ensure she and the children had food on the table. The world's weight seemed to lift off her shoulders as she realized that homelessness and starvation were no longer imminent. “You can get through this, one day at a time,” Keely assured her. “You have endured a nightmare of a tragedy. It is normal for you to have problems moving forward. Would you be willing to talk to a doctor to see about help for your depression and anxiety?” Having received ECCCM’s help and armed with the hope Keely instilled, Miley did feel ready to go to the doctor. She was put on medication that helped her feel better, and soon returned to work.
“I am back at work now,” Miley told Keely on her next visit to ECCCM. “I have found a new calling. I’ve been sharing with others in the community about the goodness of God, even in the midst of my own tragedy. Coming here, talking with you, and receiving help is a major part of the goodness God has shown to me.”
Keely was so amazed by Miley’s strength and resilience. She had anewfound sense of purpose. Keely was profoundly touched by her ability to see and praise God during a time of loss and profound grief. Your generosity makes it possible for our case managers to sit with clients and take the time to hear their stories. It also makes it possible for us to offer them food and crisis assistance during their time of great grief. Thank you for all the ways you support this ministry we share.
*Name changed for client confidentiality.