Karen Leader • Derry Member

Editor’s Note: On the first Thursday of each month, the eNews feature article highlights the mission focus for the month. In January we’re lifting up women’s equality, justice and opportunity.

For years, Derry Church has supported many missions focused on women’s issues. Bethesda Women and Children’s Mission has been one of these for more than 20 years. The shelter offers lodging, meals, clothing and other basic needs for women in addiction recovery and homelessness who need hope and healing, stability and safety.

In this Christ-centered shelter, women and children are offered a comfortable room and a chance for a new beginning in life. Residents are also given courses in nutrition and parenting and dress management. Classes also include counseling for addiction, Bible study, personal finances and budgeting. There are special programs for children and arts and crafts. These programs hopefully offer life- changing support either in a short term recovery program or a longer transitional housing program before moving out on their own again.

Derry Church not only supports Bethesda financially but also by providing lunch for women and children in the program.

Derry’s Mission & Peace Committee invites you to sign up to make food, serve lunch and talk with the residents. For our volunteers, this has been a rewarding experience to learn and understand more about addiction and homelessness by hearing their stories! Contact me for more information.