“We Love You, Joy House!”

If you wonder why we named our family shelter Joy House, just look at the smiles of our younger guests! On any given night, there may be 60 children staying here. These kids have been through some tough times, but thanks to you, today they’re happy, secure and full of enthusiasm. We asked a few of the kids whose mothers are in our Fresh Start program some questions about their experiences at Joy House, and thought we’d share their very candid answers with you!

Q. What was life like before you came to Joy House?

A. “It was like a maze...or a circus! ‘Cause we were traveling from here to there, then from here to back there...”

Q. What’s your life like now?

A. “I feel like I’m going in a straight line!”

Q. What do you like most about living at Joy House?

A. “City Camp.” “Tutoring.” “Bible study.”

Q. Is the food good?

A. “Yes! The fried chicken, fish, pizza, spaghetti.” (Note: When prompted, the kids did admit that they like vegetables, too!)

Q. What have you learned about God at Joy House?

A. “He’s always with me.” “We can get over our anger and our problems--we can talk to Him anytime.” “He (Jesus) died for our sins.” “We are all brothers and sisters in God.”

Q. What do you have at Joy House that other kids don’t?

A. “We have Jesus!” “People care about us. They pray for us and check on us.” “They (staff) choose to work here and help people who don’t have a home.”

Q. What would you like to say to people who give to Joy House?

A. “Thank you for donating all the wonderful things. We appreciate everything you give us.” “God bless you, ‘cause (giving) was the right thing to do.” “I’m glad that God will be smiling on you all. Thank you--and we bless you!”

We couldn’t have said that any better!

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” - Matthew 19:14, NIV