The Belcher’s Story
At Kingdom Causes Bellflower (KCB), we strive to create a space where everyone feels like they belong. For Patricia and Duane, their journey with KCB began in 2017, and over the years, the community center has become more than just a resource—it’s become a family. They both came in recently for their regular visit looking for their mail and a conversation, and that turned in to some deep wisdom about their experiences.
Patricia and Duane first connected with KCB through a recommendation from the Norwalk Community Center. Since then, KCB has become a safe haven for them. When asked what belonging means to them, Patricia says, “Belonging means a place you can come to where it feels like family. They tell you to never give up, to keep striving. Some days are tough, but there’s always the next day. You can always try again until you meet your goal.” For Patricia and Duane, that encouragement has been the foundation of their journey—knowing that even in hard times, they are supported.
One of the biggest contributions KCB has made in their lives is the sense of family. “Javvy and Valerie make us feel so welcome,” Patricia shares. “Every time we leave, we feel like we were blessed. It’s not just about the services; it’s about the care and attention they give. We KNOW you’re working to help not only us but everyone.”
Duane adds, “If you’re having a rough day, you can come here and leave with a smile on your face.” Their gratitude extends beyond themselves—they’re both motivated by the kindness they receive here. Because of that, Patricia and Duane now make an effort to help others. “We are always inspired to give back, whether it's offering a meal or helping with whatever we can. You’re blessing people to be a blessing, and we love it,” Patricia says.
A simple moment stood out to Patricia as a symbol of KCB’s commitment to making everyone feel valued. “I remember when Javvy called us ‘friends’ instead of clients. That meant so much to us. You guys make us feel like family.” For Duane, it’s the open ear and heart of the staff that makes all the difference. “Having someone to talk to when you’re struggling—it means the world.”
Patricia and Duane have faced some tough times, but they’ve leaned on each other and their faith. Patricia reflects on the hardships of sleeping on the street, trying to stay dry in the rain, and scraping together enough to find shelter. “It’s been rough, but life has rules, and you have to adjust. You just have to make things better than the situation you’re in.”
Despite the hard times, their resilience shines through. Patricia notes the unique challenges of being a woman experiencing homelessness, but she’s grateful for Duane’s protection and support. They both express how KCB has been a place of safety and renewal during their time at the tiny home village. “When we were there, we could come here and forget about our problems. And trust us, there were A LOT of problems there. The community center is a safe place where we feel looked out for, blessed,” Patricia explains.
When asked about their hopes for the future, Patricia and Duane offer a simple message: “Never give up.” Their outlook is grounded in their faith and the belief that perseverance will lead to brighter days. Patricia encourages others to cling to their faith and reminds everyone that “it’s not how we start, it’s how we finish.”
As for what could make KCB an even stronger place of belonging, they keep it lighthearted: “Cartoons or TV. We’d be here everyday” they say with a smile.
It’s people like Duane and Patricia that make the community center what it is. They’re truly family here because they’re truly family to God’s kingdom. We believe that everyone deserves to feel value and belonging, and the community center is one way we’re able to do just that.
If you’re interested in helping us continue the work we do through the community center, please consider donating to our “Love Thy Neighbor” Fund, which is fund that was created to help neighbors with challenges that often fall through there cracks of program specific funding sources.
To donate, please visit https://www.kcbellflower.org/give and enter “LTNF” or “Love Thy Neighbor” Fund in the giving note.
You can also write a check made payable to Kingdom Causes Bellflower and add “LTNF” on the comment line. For checks, you can drop it off or mail it to our office at the following address:
16429 Bellflower Blvd. Bellflower, Ca 90706.
As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, your donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Thanks and God Bless.