From Crisis to Hope: A Journey of Faith, Family, and Restoration
When a local family of six first arrived at The Salvation Army Alma Corps in September 2024, they faced a storm of uncertainty. Living in an unstable rental in Mt. Pleasant with four school-aged children enrolled in Alma, they struggled to get back to the Gratiot County area. Without reliable transportation or a nearby support system, their situation grew increasingly unsustainable. To make things worse, the husband was dealing with serious health issues, requiring multiple monthly medical visits to Ann Arbor. Spiritually, the whole family felt lost, disconnected from their faith, and searching for hope.
Things took a devastating turn in early February. Their application for local housing was denied, and they were officially evicted. Shortly afterward, the husband had a major surgery that led to the amputation of his leg. While he recovered in the hospital for more than two weeks, the rest of the family was forced to live out of their car.
Then came an unexpected blessing. While still in the hospital, the husband reconnected with a long-lost niece who had also been searching for her family. This surprise reunion led to a life-changing offer: she invited them to stay with her in Elwell. That act of kindness marked a turning point for the family, who firmly believed that God’s hand was at work.
Since then, their lives have gradually shifted from crisis to stability. They now attend church where their children are actively involved in Bible study and youth group programs. The family has also found purpose in giving back, volunteering to serve others, and strengthening their family bonds.
Much of this transformation was made possible by The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope program. Case Manager Jennifer played a key role by providing compassionate guidance, practical coaching, and steadfast support. The family credits her with helping them stay grounded and rebuild their trust in others. Jennifer collaborated with them on budgeting and planning for a potential home purchase through a land contract, while also helping them reconnect with their community.
Today, the husband is preparing to get a prosthetic leg and is eager to regain his independence. The couple’s relationship has become stronger, and family communication has improved. The wife has begun working in home health care while continuing to seek disability support. Together, they see every step forward as a blessing from God, made possible by the care and compassion they received during their toughest days.
This family now walks a path of renewed purpose—grounded in faith, enriched by service, and driven by the hope that tomorrow will be brighter than yesterday.