Meet John.
When we met him, John was walking through one of the hardest seasons of his life. He had been experiencing homelessness and was searching for a safe place to rebuild. After a long wait, he was accepted into the Community Housing Solutions Center in Tampa, a shelter known for its wraparound services and a long waiting list because of the care they provide. That acceptance was a breakthrough in itself.
Since entering the program, John has been doing well. He recently got a job and was doing everything he could to stay committed, even though transportation was a major challenge. He had to walk long distances to and from work every day, and the nearest bus stop was still far from his job site. Until his first paycheck arrived, he had no reliable way to get there.
John came to the outreach hungry, not just for food, but for hope. He shared that he really needed a bike so he could keep his job and stay on track. He entered his name into the raffle, praying for a miracle. And God showed up.
When his name was called, he stood in disbelief. He had won the bike. The very thing he needed was provided at just the right time. He also received a belly full of food and clothing he could wear to work, which gave him both comfort and confidence to keep going.
But the greatest moment came after his physical needs were met. Surrounded by worship, prayer, and the love of God, John gave his life to Jesus Christ. The One who restores not only our resources but also our hearts and our future.
John walked away that day with more than just a bike, a belly full of food, and new clothes. He walked away with renewed hope, restored faith, and a relationship with the Savior who can do the impossible.
