During a particularly difficult time of her life Claire met Anne, the Manager of our Child and Family Centre, on a chance encounter 24 years ago in the community. Anne invited her back to a prayer meeting at the Centre and, despite her limited understanding of Christianity, she accepted this invitation. At the prayer meeting, “something felt right”, and this feeling pulled Claire back to the Centre again and again.

As Claire’s relationships have blossomed at the Child and Family Centre, so has her confidence. This has encouraged her to step up to volunteering opportunities at the Centre, helping to organize coffee mornings and day trips for vulnerable families. Volunteering has given Claire the opportunity to use her empathy and compassion to connect with other parents who are struggling, and bring them comfort. This new responsibility has shifted her attention to what she can do, after years of focusing on what she can’t. Claire’s achievements have spurred her on to volunteer at the Mission’s City Centre Drop-in dinner services and connect with guests experiencing homelessness, poverty and addiction. Getting to know these individuals has taught her about resilience, and inspired her to make a positive impact on the world.

Today, Claire still feels pain. She has now had five knee replacements and continues experiencing days when it’s too difficult to leave the house. The difference now is that pain no longer defines her, and she doesn’t have to face it alone.

By donating to this appeal, you would directly support Claire, her family and many other vulnerable parents/carers and children struggling right now to find a “wee safe haven”.

We need your help to offer more disadvantaged families with opportunities to find meaning in their challenges, and hope for their future. Donate below to provide life-changing support to people like Claire who need it most.

*name changed to preserve anonymity