Fall Signs of Hope

St. Johannes Lutheran Church and Next Steps of South Carolina provide a volunteer counselor and financial assistance as we work with The Navigation Center. The Navigation Center offers a place where people can be heard, along with staff, volunteers, practical resources, and a broad network of nonprofits. Together, we are able to offer more than a handout. We can listen, offer practical help, work for justice, and reflect Christ’s love as we walk alongside our neighbors in the Charleston area taking their next steps. Here are three recent stories.

Helping Louise Keep the Lights On

Louise, pictured in a sleeveless shirt, has two adult children and a five-year-old niece living with her. She works in home healthcare for elderly people, caring for others while carrying significant responsibilities at home.

A roommate had been sharing expenses, but recently moved out and left Louise with a very large unpaid electric bill. Louise needed to make a minimum payment to keep her electric service on.

We were able to pay a large portion of that amount, and Louise felt confident that she could pay the rest. Keeping the lights on is not a small thing when a household depends on you. We were grateful to offer help at just the right time and give Louise room to catch up.

One Last Hurdle for Renee’s Family

Renee, pictured in a shirt with sleeves, is an upbeat mother who recently moved to the Charleston area from New York with her boyfriend of 12 years, the father of all her children. Renee has a good job, and he is employed as well. His first paycheck will arrive in three weeks.

After paying their bills, the family had nothing left for the child-care voucher Renee needed for her children. She believed they would be okay once they made it past this final hurdle.

We were able to pay for the voucher. It was encouraging to meet Renee and hear her hope for her family’s future. Sometimes a very practical need can stand between a family and the stability they are working hard to build. We were glad to help clear that obstacle.

A Prayerful Perspective for Alice

Alice, who is not pictured, is a 64-year-old woman living with significant disabilities. Even with the difficulties she has faced, she has a very positive attitude. As we talked, she shared stories of the ways she believes God has answered many of her prayers.

After a hospitalization, Alice struggled to catch up on her back bills. She managed to pay all of her back rent, but her landlord then evicted her. Alice found a great apartment, only to discover later that the toilet had been leaking without her knowledge. Although the toilet was replaced, she was left with a large water bill.

Alice could pay most of the bill, but not all of it. We were able to pay the balance. We were thankful to help a good woman who has persevered through so much and who continues to face life with faith and hope.

If you would like to know more about this ministry or how you can help, please let Tom or Pastor Aaron know.