I’ve struggled to write a blog for some time because I so desperately want to encapsulate everything Lighthouse is—but that’s not possible. It’s a little bit of everything. As I re-entered its doors this month, I was reminded why it’s so hard to put into words what it’s like to be at Lighthouse.

Within moments of being there, a child I love ran up to me, hugged me, and thanked me for helping her find justice after six long years. She was excited and happy. I felt deep joy and gratitude for the existence of Lighthouse and the hope these children now have for justice. Shortly after that joyful moment, I learned there were death threats against her family because her perpetrators had been found guilty. I hurt for each of them!

Within the same hour, I was consoling another child in the shelter who had just found out her father had passed away. He was the only safe person in her life—the only family member she had hoped to reunite with after her court hearings finished. She went from feeling grateful for the years Lighthouse had protected and supported her, to wondering if life was hopeless.

Later that day, another child received a message saying she was to blame for the suicide of her perpetrator—only to later find out it was a manipulative lie. Still, the message was clear: she was being blamed for turning in her abuser. She cried and we cried with her.

I turned to the next child, who wanted to express how grateful she was because she was about to receive eye surgery—something she’d waited for her whole life. Though unrelated to her abuse, kind doctors from the hospital had been inspired by the work of Lighthouse and offered to help. She was overwhelmed with appreciation for those trying to make her life better and so were we.

As I approached the next child, I was so excited to see her growth over the last 6 months. She had gone from a fear-filled pregnant teen to a faith filled empowered mother. She still faced family trials and even court trials but her gratitude shown through!

This is just a glimpse into a few moments at the shelter. Currently, there are 15 children at Lighthouse. Each one has their own story—each with highs and lows. Each day, I witness tears of hopelessness, frustration, sadness, and fear for the future. And within that same day, I see these girls dance, laugh, and express gratitude for the good in their lives. There’s no easy way to express what Lighthouse is. It doesn’t magically take away every pain or trial, but it gives purpose, hope, and help to those facing what once felt impossible.

When I first felt the call to start a safe house for children, I was well aware it was a daunting task—and well aware that I wasn’t equipped to make it successful. But I’m so grateful for the gift of faith that moved me forward and allowed me to witness how God calls people who are equipped: whether through medical expertise, financial support, or simply being a shoulder to cry on. He has a way to ease pains and heal wounds and that way is generally through His disciples. Each of us has been given gifts that allow us to ease others burdens and in so doing we find more hope and healing in our own lives. Lighthouse is God’s work. It brings hope to the hopeless, healing to the afflicted, and help to the vulnerable. It is a work that requires many hands.

Thank you to everyone who continues to donate and volunteer. We need you! These children need Lighthouse! And Lighthouse is only possible through your continued support. Please keep giving. Please invite your friends to help. The children pray for you—and we pray that you receive the blessings you need as you sacrifice for what they need. From all of us at Lighthouse, we send our love—and thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support.