Over the past several weeks, Lubbock Impact has been pouring into a single mom and her three children whose home burned down.
Before the tragic incident, this hardworking mother, Jane* had utilized Lubbock Impact’s Clothes Closet and Food and Hygiene Pantry from time to time to help meet her family’s needs. But, when she walked in a few weeks ago, the first words out of her mouth were asking for prayer. Brokenhearted, Jane shared the news of her family losing everything they owned.
From that conversation, the Lubbock Impact staff and volunteers quickly rallied around this family. Some went to the pantry looking for food, others helped her children shop for clothes, and others called looking for resources to help find a place for this family to stay. Many of the housing resources in the city had long waiting lists or no funding to offer. Fortunately, we were able to help her secure a hotel room for a few days so she could gather her thoughts and make a game plan to move forward.
After a few days, I checked in to see if she had found long-term housing. Quickly, I began to understand how hard it is to find low-income housing. The burdens of daily expenses and unexpected costs weighed heavily upon her shoulders. I reached out to other community partners who helped her with the funding needed for new housing expenses.
Losing one’s home in a devastating fire not only strips away shelter but also the basic necessities of life. Items that we can often take for granted, like toothpaste, towels, blankets, or cups. As all of this was heavy on my heart, I received a call from a new donor. She asked if Lubbock Impact needed household items, which we usually do not accept. However, thinking about this family, I shared their story with her. This donor was more than excited to donate items to go to Jane’s family. I share this often, but it always amazes me how God makes provision. Jane had mentioned multiple times that she trusted and loved God, but she struggled to fight off tears and depression. She never wanted her kids to see her break down. I was so honored to be in the position to remind her that she is seen, known, and loved by the Creator of the Universe, even during her hardest moments.
As I write this, I am excited to say that Jane is expecting to get into a home within the next few days. Amidst all of the chaos, she has also been offered a new job with increased pay and better hours – an immense blessing for her family.
In the coming weeks and months, my prayer is that this family continues to see the love of Christ as they rebuild their lives and embark on the road to healing. I pray this family would recognize that this whole time, God was making a way. A new path for them that would hold a bright future. Because as it says in Jeremiah 29:11, God has a hope and a future for each and every one of us.
Thank you for the support you give to this ministry, through prayer, through financial giving, that helps us be available for those who are walking through crisis.
*names have been changed to protect the privacy of the individuals.
Blessings,
Becky Robertson
Executive Director