I have sat and stared at this picture all morning. At first glance, it is a simple picture of a baby learning and exploring textures and colors. But it is so much more. This is the newest Agape House baby enjoying a baby blanket given as a gift. So many captions come to mind for such a simple image, but all of them pale in comparison when you consider the true journey this baby is experiencing.
This picture represents “Hope”. It represents “Hope” for a brighter future surrounded by love and support. Thanks to Agape House, the baby has a home and has a chance at a bright future. A home at Agape House comes with support from staff, donors, volunteers, and advocates that help the mother become independent by teaching essential life skills.
This is more than just a blanket for our mom and baby. I think about our children growing up, having their favorite blanket, and how it brought comfort and the feeling of being safe. I remember nap times that were delayed until I found the beloved blanket. A blanket is comfort and security, healing and rejuvenating, and it gives rest.
Did you know that there are more homeless children than adults? In the Prescott area alone, 276 students are homeless. We personally just welcomed a grandson into our family. I think about the baby showers, the nursery, the family gatherings at the hospital, and the meals brought after our grandson arrived home. Then I think about a baby being born to a single mother who is living in a shelter, living in a tent in the forest, living in a friend’s garage. I weep at the image of hopelessness for the homeless young mother and the bleak future for the newborn.
Agape House changes bleak futures and gives hope.
Families are thriving at Agape House. Three new families recently moved into Agapeville. It was an adorable move-in moment, as the staff were greeted by a young toddler who cheerfully blew kisses and waved hello. The toddler then promptly ran to greet the other children as they explored the play area. One mother enthusiastically stated that she is excited to cook in her new kitchen. These families now have stability and safety. One resident expressed eagerness to start the classes. These families are hungry for a chance. Agape offers mental health counseling, financial budgeting, and job opportunities in Prescott.
Christ is the center at Agape House.
A single parent moved in with kids and noticed a plaque on the living room wall displaying Joshua 24:15: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” The resident noted the significance of this verse as it relates to teaching children about maintaining faith despite challenges. Upon graduation, the goal is for the children to understand personal responsibility and household leadership in spiritual matters, moving forward with values of Faith, Hope, and Love.
Thank you for journeying with Agape House as we work to give hope to families, children, and newborn babies. Together we can make a difference. We could not transform their lives without your support!
