Cheers to a Brand New Year H.O.M.E. Family!
 
With each New Year of H.O.M.E.’s existence, a vision is cast to remind us of God’s faithfulness to HIS ministry, and our mission to helping families in need.  This year was no different: New Mercies We See… in 2023, was placed in my heart as we continue to trust God for greater things to come! 
 
If you know me personally, you also know that I believe nature has a way of teaching us spiritual life lessons—if we can be still and silent long enough to listen.  Last week, as I stood meditating through my kitchen window, my eyes quickly became focused on a grey squirrel high up in a tree, which swiftly ran back and forth across the branches.  She took the same route every time and never deviated from her path.  As I looked closer, I realized that on the way back, each time, she held in her mouth the very resources that would eventually construct and create her nest—a winter resting place. 
 
It was quite impressive to learn that squirrels are very good mothers to their young.  As such, their drays are built tucked between tall tree branches for stability; this also provides the best protection from predators, wind, and rain; and the nest is always located near their food source.  Just then… it hit me!  I was awakened to the reality that if God has given, even a squirrel, the ability and awareness to stay on the path to fulfill its purpose, how much more does he expect you and me to do the same?
 
You see, when we know the depth of God’s mercy and love for us, and His unfailing plan for our lives, we’ll understand why we mustn’t deviate from our path.  We must stay on the course where there is stability; we must abide high in the Tree of life where there is safety; and we must remain close to the One who is our everlasting source.  In doing so, we’ll see new mercies in our own lives as we extend love, compassion, and mercy to others—that may just be in need of a winter resting place.

As always… lovingly and graciously yours,

Carolyn A. Watson

Born and raised right here in Metro Atlanta, Ms. Stephanie Walker has seen her share of good days and bad.  From her early years, she was raised by loving Grandparents who were very influential and created a stable home in the absence of her biological Mother who, unfortunately, battled drug addiction.  Neither was her dad in her life, so she was grateful to have the support of a grandmother and grandfather.
 
However, after they passed away, at age thirteen she moved in with her older sister, Sheronda, who continued to be there for her in every way.  She credits her big sister with making sure she had everything she needed.  Only five years apart in age, Ms. Walker explained how hard it was when her older sister literally became the only ‘mother figure’ in her life.  “We were so close… she was my best friend,” she recalled and then added, “I could go to her for anything; and I want her to know that I truly appreciate her because it was something she really didn’t have to do.” 
 
Ms. Walker remembers being a teenager in high school and feeling awkward because she only had a big sister to talk about, and not a mother, like other students.  As a result, she went through a rebellious stage while desperately trying to adjust and figure things out.  “I only had three people in my whole life that I could depend on; I just didn’t trust people.  I was lost after everyone died.”  Although Ms. Walker’s big sister Sheronda is still living, she was diagnosed early in life with a blood clot in her brain, which left her in a childlike state.  She could no longer take care of her little sister.  As such, Ms. Walker ventured out on her own with her two intelligent sons: Jaden (age 14) who is an aspiring Band Director; and Jayceon (Age 7) who loves science and math. 
 
Although Ms. Walker is a working mother, she bounced from apartment to apartment, and even went two years without having furniture in the home.  In 2022, she finally landed on her feet and secured a place to call home.  And while she wasn’t used to asking for help, she found H.O.M.E. and decided this would be a good fit for her family.  “It felt good to sit at the table together and watch TV together…” she graciously shared.  Jaden offered loving comments about how brave and strong his mother is.  And Jayceon followed by sharing how his mom takes care of him and prays for him.  He then took an unexpected bow—at which we all laughed.

On Behalf of
The H.O.M.E. Team
Congratulations