September 2024 - Volume 36, Number 8 | Be ye doers of the Word, and not hearers only. (James 1.22)
Breaking the Cycle: A Christian Response to Homelessness
​Wayside stands as a refuge for those facing homelessness in Louisville, Kentucky. Contrary to common misconceptions, not all individuals experiencing homelessness struggle with addiction. Many are victims of unforeseen economic challenges such as job loss, or serious health problems.
At Wayside, we believe in treating every individual with dignity and respect, regardless of their circumstances.
Our mission is rooted in Christian values, emphasizing compassion, empathy, and a commitment to serving those in need. We offer shelter, meals, and essential services as immediate relief, but our work extends far beyond that. We provide comprehensive programs addressing job training, mental health support, and life skills development to empower individuals to rebuild their lives.
Your support is essential to our mission. Financial contributions enable us to maintain our facilities, provide nutritious meals, and fund programs that offer pathways to self-sufficiency. By donating, you are investing in the hope and potential of your neighbors.
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However, compassion is more than just monetary support. Volunteering your time creates a profound impact on the lives of those we serve. From serving meals to mentoring residents, your involvement fosters a sense of community and hope. By sharing your skills and talents, you can inspire others to overcome adversity and achieve their goals.
Your support, whether financial or through volunteer service, is a tangible expression of Christian love. Let us work together to build a more compassionate community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Text/Call 345-9030 to offer your support.
DIRECTOR'S CORNER:
GOD, GRATITUDE, AND GROWTH: READ ABOUT DALE’S REMARKABLE RECOVERY AT WAYSIDE.
Just over a year ago, Dale Mayo came through Wayside’s doors, lost and broken by a decades-long battle with addiction. But now, thanks to the guidance and support of this remarkable program, he has found new life. He graduated from the recovery program and is happily employed at a local hospital.
"I can't say enough good things about Wayside," Dale reflected, his eyes shining. "It's all thanks to God, really. I firmly believe nothing is possible without Him." He smiled, remembering his tumultuous journey to this point. "When I first came here, I wasn't even sure I wanted to stay. But as time went on, the picture became so much clearer. I knew I had to leave that old life behind – the misery, the death. I wanted to live, to see my grandkids grow up."
Dale's gaze drifted to the kitchen, where he volunteers each morning to serve breakfast to his fellow residents. "It's my way of giving back, you know? I get up at 4 a.m. every day to do it, and I love it. These folks, they haven't had a kind word in so long. I try to put a smile on their faces, make them feel cared for. It just fills me with such joy."
Dale wants to see his grandkids grow up.
Asked about his future, Dale replied, "My plans are to eventually move out on my own, get a vehicle, build a life. But I'm in no rush – I know it's one step at a time. Right now, I'm just focused on my recovery, on staying strong in my faith. As long as God is with me, I know I can't go wrong. "As he spoke, Dale couldn't help but give thanks to Tim and Nina Moseley, the directors who had welcomed him with open arms. "They've done so much, not just for me, but for so many others. I'll always be grateful to them, and to this place that quite literally saved my life."
Wayside & JCPS Partner FOR
BETTER Education & ENTHUSIASM
Wayside and JCPS continue to work together to help support our homeless children. The district provides transportation, clothing, and supplies, ensuring continuity of education. Certified teachers offer tutoring sessions at the shelter, addressing diverse learning needs and boosting student confidence.
These efforts have led to increased school attendance, improved grades, and a renewed enthusiasm for learning by the homeless children.
Text/Call 345-9030 to offer your support
Tutoring sessions at the shelter help our kids
Honoring Penny Terrell:
A Legacy of Love and Support.
Penny looks forward to retirement.
The choir will miss Penny’s voice.
Penny has helped so many via the Samaritan Patrol.
Nadine “Penny” Terrell, a dedicated employee and successful graduate of Wayside Christian Mission’s recovery program, has retired to help raise her grandkids. She has been a major force and will be greatly missed.
Penny’s work as a Peer Support Navigator involved assisting veterans and clients by taking them to essential appointments, such as doctor visits and court appearances. She emphasized the importance of these tasks, especially for older veterans who struggle with health issues. “A lot of our VETS, they’re older. I’m not a VET but I’m older. So with losing teeth, toothaches, doctor’s appointments, whether it’s a regular appointment or getting them there, transportation issues may cause serious problems,” she explained.
Her role extended beyond mere transportation; it was about providing a sense of security and support. Penny’s personal experience as a recovering alcoholic allowed her to connect deeply with those she helped. She candidly shared, “My hardest part was the mental, the behaviors of recovering alcoholics in the addicts. I can identify because that’s what
I am... a recovering alcoholic.”
Penny found fulfillment in her work. She valued the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, whether it was through a simple grocery run or providing a calming presence during a crisis. “It’s just about calming somebody down and making them feel secure,” she noted.
As Penny prepared to return to her hometown in Virginia, she looked forward to spending time with her four grandchildren. She also plans to continue helping others in her community struggling with addiction and homelessness. Her selflessness and her personal journey of recovery serves as an inspiration to many at Wayside Christian Mission. Penny’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of compassionate love.
Happy Retirement, Penny! We thank you for sharing your many talents with us. Live a long, joyous life!
Holiday Volunteers Wanted!
It’s not too soon to get on our Thanksgiving and Christmas Volunteer list! With the growth of the homeless population, we’re expecting larger numbers of homeless seeking Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. That means we’ll need more volunteers!
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Please call Tracy at 502-345-0081 or sign up at: waysidechristianmission.org/holiday-help
Stove-rrific! GoFundMe Campaign Hits Goal
Jane and Deborah prepare their delicious cobbler.
When Deborah Keeling started volunteering at Wayside, she discovered a surplus of frozen blueberries in the shelter's kitchen. Knowing a simple cobbler recipe, she suggested making cobblers to use up the extra fruit. The shelter’s chef liked the idea.
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She and another volunteer, Jane Miller, began making enough cobbler to feed 300 people. The delicious treats have become a popular item at the shelter, providing a sweet treat for the residents.
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However, in the process, they noticed a pressing need: the shelter's kitchen desperately needed a new stove. The old one, despite its age, was the only one that functioned, struggling to keep up with the demands of feeding more than 200 people three meals a day.
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Determined to make a difference, Deborah and her husband, Terry, set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise the funds for a new stove. Neither had used the platform before, but they found it surprisingly easy to navigate. They simply created a page, shared a photo of the old stove, and explained the situation. Within days, the campaign had exceeded its goal of $4,100, thanks to donations from friends, family, and others. “30 people donated and many people donated twice,” Terry said. “I think people who realize how blessed they are, are eager to help and share that blessing with somebody else.”
"People are more likely to donate when they see a specific need,” Deborah added. “Knowing that their money would directly benefit those in need made a big difference."
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The Keelings' campaign was a success, not only in raising the necessary funds but also in demonstrating the power of community and the simplicity of using online platforms like GoFundMe.
Their experience serves as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a big impact.
Terry & Deborah with the donated stove.
