“¡Échale ganas!”

This morning at staff meeting we reflected on a President Jimmy Carter quote, “My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference.”

An hour later, a neighbor came to the door asking for help.

She had been arrested for sleeping outside after the couches she normally “surfs” were unavailable. I was able to help her understand her release paperwork, and we made a phone call to get information about her case. She was so relieved to know she hadn’t missed her court date, and so grateful for our help.

A simple act of neighborly love was the relational support she needed. She told me about her grandkids and I encouraged her to not give up. “¡Échale ganas!” I reassured her that we’re here to help in any way we can. As she gave me a huge hug saying, “Feliz año nuevo,” I remembered that we can’t do everything, but with whatever I have, I’m going to try to make a difference.

-Maritza Rebollar

Youth Director and Resident of Casa Unidos