Michigan—From June 13 to Dec. 13, 2005, Polly's Place in Niles, Mich., has served fifty abused or battered women and children who otherwise would not have received individualized treatment and spiritual renewal. In order to keep a program like this running, it takes a community.
We have appreciated the help of volunteers and want to officially thank specific people who have enabled us to stay the course and answer God's call to help the hurting. Several volunteers have gone above and beyond to help keep the program going. These include: Lahai Allen, Susan Forsey, Amanda Jardine, Doug Myers, Steve Grooms, Myriam Monrose, Wendra Johnson, Ardith Jarrard, Dave Pehska, Ray Robbins, and the Berrien Springs Village Elementary School eighth graders.
On the Day of Caring, which was named the Decade of Caring this year to celebrate its tenth year, a group from Whirlpool Corporation came to Polly's Place and did some much-needed painting in the shelter and counseling cottage, and repaired a huge hole in the barn roof so we can now enjoy family fun activities there.
Our staff roster is growing. We now have two resident manager assistants. Kenah Daye, a graduate student at Andrews University, works one weekend a month and a few days a week. Shalewa Paul works evenings, nights, and two weekends a month. We are blessed to have that relief and their wonderful calming presence in the house. Peggy Cain is volunteering as the office manager part-time. She answers phones, organizes the office, and keeps good statistics. We appreciate her commitment to the program.
Mary's Inn, a residential program for unwed teen mothers, is still being planned. In order to make this dream a reality we will need to construct a building dedicated to the Mary's Inn program. Look for a capital campaign to begin in Spring 2006.
Fundraisers are also being planned for the spring. These fundraisers will include a Gospel Fest to be held Sun., Mar. 26, 2006, and a race or bike-a-thon on Memorial Day 2006. Specific details are being worked out. You may contact us at (269) 687-9822 for additional information.
Though we haven't gotten large donations, we have learned to trust in the Lord to provide for our everyday needs and He has every time, through the donations you give and the wonderful support from Polly's Place Network.
Recently, an abuse survivor wrote: "I found Polly's Place and it changed my life. I have counseling sessions twice a week and have learned why and how abuse went on. I have learned what it means to be safe and feel safe. I have developed a close relationship with God. Now me and my kids pray together."
We want to help more women and children. We invite you to partner with us in this very meaningful and life-changing ministry. Cash donations are appreciated and will be used to sponsor individuals and families. We also welcome prayer partners. A wish list has been started and includes: volunteers for child care, fresh fruits and vegetables, health food, notebooks for journaling, three-ring binders, hair accessories, hair products, bakeware, cookie sheets, small lock boxes, a riding lawn mower, and a copier.
If you are able to help, call Alina Baltazar, executive director, at (269) 687-9822; or mail donations or items to: Polly's Place Niles, P.O. Box 1055, Niles, MI 49120.
—Polly's Place News
