Living on the back porch of a family member’s home is bad enough, but when that family member is doing drugs, the situation becomes a crisis.

When Evan and Danielle first called Love In the Name of Christ, this is the crisis they were in.

Evan and Danielle had been living in New Mexico. When Evan lost his job due to covid-related issues and they were evicted from their home, they moved to Florida. They had family in this area, Evan found a job and now they just needed housing.

They were saving for a place, but every time they put in an application someone else got selected to live there. Danielle was struggling with depression due to their circumstances, and her depression deepened each time they did not get selected.

Clearinghouse Volunteers got to know Evan and Danielle throughout this process. There was not much that could be done by Love INC other than refer them to agencies that help with housing. However, Love INC volunteers kept in touch with them anyway. The calls were a source of encouragement for Danielle. The volunteers that spoke to her cared for her by listening to her and praying for her. They provided what resources they could, but most importantly they helped Danielle have hope when things looked bleak.

This situation was not one where material needs were provided for. Instead, it was an opportunity to walk with people who are struggling. This is the heart of what Love INC does. So many calls come in that deal with needs that can’t be immediately met or met by Love INC at all. In these cases – as with Evan and Danielle – it is an honor to get to know more about them than their current crisis. To walk with them over a longer period of time. To celebrate with them when they have a change in their lives.

Fortunately, the last time a Clearinghouse Volunteer spoke to Evan and Danielle, they were thrilled to announce that they had found housing! This was definitely a cause for celebration.

At times, a person’s greatest need is to know that they are seen, and known, and cared for. Because of partnership with Love INC, Evan and Danielle felt loved. They knew they had someone in their corner, cheering them on. They had hope.