By Barbara Marzette and Amy Wolfe, Director of Development- Racine and Kenosha Metro, WI
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! Romans 11:33
I recently met Barbara, a mom who had been supported through Safe Families. When I met her, she talked extensively about what Safe Families has meant to her and her family and how she is so grateful for the relationships she made and has continued to develop. I asked her to share her story, because it is such a testament to the value and power of building social connections.
“It was during Christmas break, and I pretty much became numb, not knowing what to do. Safe Families did exactly what the name of the organization says. It made sure our family was safe during this time. I was connected to the most amazing family, who treated my family as their own and went above and beyond what was needed. Their family helped with rides to and from school everyday for the next six months that we spent in the hotel. Not only that, but they made it possible for me to work the long hours at my job and kept my children until I was done for the day, making sure they ate and were safe, as well as always sending food with for myself and for my other two children. We definitely grew to see them as an extended family, eating dinner once a week together and spending time at their house often so that we could get out of the hotel. Through her family, she introduced us to a few other amazing families that took us in, cooked for us and took care of my children so I could make it to work and get the kids to school. I was blessed with a family that allowed us to even live with them for a few weeks when the hotel vouchers ended and I had nowhere to go. Without hesitation, their family welcomed us and made their home our home.
Safe Families was able to open up doors and help me find resources that I wouldn’t have been able to find on my own. If it wasn’t for Safe Families, I would not have been able to work or connect to the landlord I have now for my current house. When I didn’t know which way to go or who to call, Safe Families connected me with so many resources and amazing families. I can honestly say this organization is the reason I am where I am now. I am beyond grateful and blessed.”
Barbara’s story is not only a testament of the power of forming relationships through Safe Families, but it is also a beautiful picture of God’s providence and how he is orchestrating the inner workings of our lives. When this mom called Safe Families for support, she had no idea that there was a family who attended the same school as her children and was ready to say yes to the call. That seemingly small detail was the key to Barbara and her children being willing to trust the volunteer family and allowed them to make a connection. Additionally, it made it possible for the volunteer family to provide very needed tangible supports like driving Barbara’s children home from school and caring for them when necessary.
It’s stories like this that make me love the work I do. When things work out so beautifully as they did in this mom’s story, I can’t think of anything else to do but give God the glory and thank him for his sovereignty and providence over our lives and the work we do in Safe Families. To him be the glory!
For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen. Romans 11:36