Lily's Story

Imagine … one *Autistic child, frustrated and only speaking in single words to express his needs and a single mom, 9 months pregnant with her second child and living with a man who was making her question the safety of her children.  Lily is the mom in this story, and she was seeking peace, and a voice for her son.  

In the summer of 2021, Lily came to live at The Mission, hoping to find a safer environment for herself and the children.  At the time she arrived, she had 3 year old Carter and a newborn son, Owen. 

Carter, a beautiful but troubled little boy with Autism would barely speak, and when he did it was frustrating for him as he tried to communicate his wants and needs.  He frequently would run, and then had tantrums because of his inability to communicate to the adults and other children.  Lily, however being hopeful, reached out to the case management team here at The Mission and asked for resources on how to help Carter find his voice. 

As Lily continued her struggle to help Carter, she was working on improving her own mental and spiritual self through our programs.  She set goals, and finished classes on financial management and job readiness training, and received spiritual instruction from our Pastor.  Before coming to the Mission, Lily had rededicated her life to Christ, and she felt God led her here for a reason.  Lily has told us “I feel a part of the community here.  I’ve made friends and received blessing after blessing from volunteers, supporters, other residents and the staff.  I have learned patience, integrity, independence and self-confidence/self-love”. 

“WE ARE A TRIBE – and we all love each other here … The Mission of Yahweh has helped me grow and become the person I need to be for my family.” 

Lily’s future is looking brighter as she recently obtained a new job.  Carter is in school (after much coaxing to get on the bus), and  is now speaking full sentences and communicating at his age level.  Owen will celebrate his 2nd birthday and shortly the family will be looking for housing.   Hope for this family was found here and now Carter has hope because He has found his voice!  

Thank you for supporting The Mission of Yahweh.  The Impact of your gift helps us continue to offer programs that meet the special needs of women and children everyday!