The St. Paul's congregation has been a strong supporter of Bethesda House, the shelter for at-risk women and children, as part of its outreach work. Part of the connection is that Ruth, my wife has been employed by Bethesda House, for several years as the child and youth worker, and for the past three years as an outreach worker.
Two weeks ago the outreach staff returned to their building after a year and a half in "exile" at the shelter. Their building, which is also home for the Second Chance store supporting Bethesda House, was destroyed by fire, so the staff was crammed into temporary space. Now they are in a bright, and brand new working environment.
The outreach workers have contact with those who need support but may not need to be in the shelter. Ruth is a trained counsellor who meets with those who are going through the trauma of leaving abusive situations. Often she accompanies clients to court.
She also does preventative work, running programs for teen girls which help them to consider what healthy relationship look like, and with teen boys addressing anger issues. She speaks at churches, guiding groups, and other organizations. Recently she was at UOIT, Ontario University, making a presentation in one of the courses.
Ruth and Bethesda House are very grateful for the interest and practical support of congregations.
2 comments:
That is very important work that Ruth is doing - working with teens is so important to help keep them on the right path. People leaving abusive relationships also need a lot of support and guidance, as in many cases, self image and confidence is shattered. I'm glad the congregation strongly supports Bethesda House.
Ruth spent time with teen groups for both boys and girls this week. With the guys there is so much macho bravado, and she often wonders about the future for their partners. We can only hope and pray that they are listening.
Last night she was with a gaggle of Guides who enthusiastically responded to what she was presenting. We can also hope these girls will remember as well.
Thanks for your response.
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