Jennifer’s Story
God is present in the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, and everywhere in between. Through the experiences of our neighbors, we here at Kingdom Causes Bellflower (KCB) see tangible evidence of the persistent love of God as he relentlessly helps his children pick themselves up again. We are so grateful to be the hands and feet of Jesus as we partake in each neighbor’s ongoing journey. Oftentimes solutions to our neighbors’ complex and unique problems take multiple steps and stretch over long periods of time, but the Lord remains gracious and faithful as we press forward together.
Jennifer was homeless for a year and went through a lion's share of struggles. Battling addiction, losing her belongings in a fire, being separated from her children, even surviving a shooting—and yet, Jennifer clung to her faith and remembered Biblical stories like the Old Testament King Hezekiah, whose faith in the face of terminal illness caused the Lord to add fifteen years to his life. Despite seemingly insurmountable challenges, Jennifer kept her hope. She said, “I wouldn’t be here today without the grace of God.”
Eventually, Jennifer got connected to the GSI program and completed her 300 hours of work. She said it “was the best job I ever had.” From there, she worked for a short period of time at Chevron and was then connected through KCB to the Department of Rehabilitation, who helped her take computer classes. Jennifer completed her course, even through a major health issue which rendered her arm unusable for the entire program. She then returned to GSI and went through the program again with her boyfriend, who later became her husband! Today, Jennifer and her husband remain grounded in faith and financially stable. Jennifer is also now a California state-certified Peer Support Specialist! We are so grateful for the success Jennifer has enjoyed! Of her journey and life today, she said, “Being in the word has changed our lives but you have to seek it. You have to want it. You don’t have to be clean, sober, anything. He is the potter, we are the clay. Surrender.” Jennifer’s faith inspires all of us and reminds us that the Lord accepts us as we are and makes us infinitely better. He heals our wounds, lights our way, and loves every part of our stories.
One member of the KCB staff said, “Jennifer is a loved member of the KCB GSI family. She often comes in to finish up documents, schooling items, print certificates, and she always brings in laughter and joy. It’s evident that the Lord is transforming her everyday.”
Thanks to the work of various KCB staff like Gene, George, Maggie, Andrew, and Mike, Jennifer found a place to feel loved, accepted, and seen. Please continue to pray for strength and discernment for Jennifer as she seeks to share the light of Christ in the very streets she used to inhabit. Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide her steps as she continues to rely on his guidance. As Jennifer said, “Nobody is perfect. It’s a work in progress. But there’s new mercies everyday.” Please consider partnering with us as we pursue this work and come alongside individuals like Jennifer, depending on the new mercies of the Lord to light our way.