Turning Points

Turning Points

Lionel shuffled into the lobby; each step was heavy with exhaustion. His voice was rough with weariness as he admitted, "I need help. My power’s been off for weeks." He sat across from our case manager, Keely, who offered him a kind, reassuring smile. "Tell me what’s going on," she said gently.

Lionel sighed and rubbed his face. "I was a caretaker. The person I cared for passed away, and I didn’t realize the power bill was overdue until it was too late. Now, I don’t have the money to put the account in my name. Keely nodded, her expression filled with understanding. "That must be incrediblydifficult. Let’s see what we can do." Lionel hesitated. "You mean… you might be able to help?"

After reviewing his information, Keely reassured him, "Yes. We can cover the past-due balance and the deposit to get your power restored." Lionel’s eyes widened in disbelief, and he asked, "So… I can go home and take a hot shower tonight?" "Yes," she said with a warm smile. "Also, if you’re interested, we offer a budgeting and resources class that will help you going forward."

A week later, Lionel walked back through the doors of Ashure Ministry. This time, he stood tall, his face no longer clouded with worry. "I started the class," he shared, "and you know what? I want to find a way to help others the way you all have helped me!

At Ashure Ministry, we witness transformations like Lionel’s every day—people walk in feeling lost and overwhelmed, but with support, they leave stronger, ready to rebuild their lives. Often, like Lionel, clients return not just to express gratitude, but to share the ways they have learned to pass on kindness. This is the heart of what we do. We don’t just provide assistance—we create turning points. Because of your support, more people like Lionel can come in discouraged and walk out empowered, ready to help someone else do the same.