Patty can’t get enough of the Kokomo Rescue Mission.
Even though she graduated from the program long ago and lives independently, she keeps coming back again and again … but not as a client. Patty keeps returning as a volunteer — to help women in desperate circumstances … much like her own.
When Patty first came to us in early 2000, she’d been homeless for almost six months. She had fled a domestic-abuse situation only to find herself in danger again — sleeping in her car at night in public parking lots.
“It was very frightening,” she says. “People take advantage of you. I was always afraid.”
Patty’s fears were soon put to rest when she came to the Mission for help.
“They welcomed me with open arms,” she says now. “They were so friendly. What a relief, let me tell you. I was very grateful.”
Patty settled into the daily rhythms at the Mission, participating in the program, in Bible study and chapel, and regularly helping out in the kitchen. She earned a reputation for her amazing breakfasts, particularly her blueberry pancakes.
When her application for public housing was approved, Patty moved out on her own … reluctantly.
“I miss it here,” she says. “So I asked them if I could come back as a volunteer, and they allowed me to do that.”
Patty works at the front desk, answers phone calls and performs general office work. “I love it here,” she says. “The people are just beautiful.”
Friends like you help people find the love and support they need. Thank you!