Rebuilding A Life: Brenda’s story of resilience and hope

Many individuals we serve have endured significant losses. How can someone rebuild their life when they lack the resources and emotional strength to move forward? This is where UGM steps in, offering holistic care and a loving environment. Read on to learn how Brenda found hope through the care she received at UGM.

Recovering From Losses

Imagine the strength it takes to rebuild your life after enduring significant losses. Brenda’s journey is one of resilience and hope. 

Raised in Spokane, Brenda had a fulfilling career in the medical field for thirteen years. However, just before the onset of the pandemic, she unexpectedly lost her job despite a spotless record. This marked the beginning of a challenging season of her life.

Along with employment issues, Brenda faced heartbreaking personal trials as well. She was widowed twenty-three years ago and later lost her only son to leukemia. Brenda moved in with her sister, but sadly, she passed away in 2019.  

In the years that followed these losses, she struggled with unstable living conditions and moved between the homes of her relatives. Despite being welcomed initially, each stay ended, sometimes abruptly and painfully. Her belongings had once even been left outside to inform her that she had been kicked out. Through it all, Brenda struggled to maintain healthy boundaries.

 

“I always told God I wanted to work in a soup kitchen.” 

Hope-filled Faith

Despite the years of turbulence and instability, one constant in Brenda’s life has been her deep faith and devotion to studying the Bible. She even had a library full of Bibles and Christian study materials but lost it all due to her ever-changing living situation. These trials eventually led Brenda to the UGM Women and Children’s Shelter. Upon arriving, she shared that she’d never had an issue with alcohol or drugs, which led to her placement as a resident volunteer—a position given to those whose stay may extend beyond the 90-day window standard for regular guests.

Brenda now thrives as a leader in the shelter kitchen. “I always told God I wanted to work in a soup kitchen,” she said. She never thought she’d be benefiting from UGM’s services, but is thankful for God’s provision.   

Brenda excelled in the Boundaries class offered at UGM, where she not only learned but also helped other women understand its significance. “God wants [people to be part of] his kingdom to come,” she shared. Chapel offers her another opportunity to share about God with others.

Thank you for offering a pathway toward new life. 

Looking Forward With New Support

While she appreciates the support from UGM staff and guests , Brenda finds community living to be challenging. “It’s hard to find a place where I can be alone with God,” she said. She hopes to eventually live in affordable housing where she can continue her “God research.” UGM staff is assisting her in using her widow benefits to find a permanent home.

Brenda feels blessed and continually reminded of God’s unwavering support. She openly shares about her faith with others. The selfless giving of time, talent, and treasure from friends like you provides individuals like Brenda a peaceful place to shelter while their lives are being repaired.

Thank you for offering a pathway toward new life.