Street Stories

Port Towns Youth Council Donates To Streetlights of Bethany

Rev Bobbi — Fri, 21 May 2010 03:37:00 GMT

Young people in our local area raised funds to bless back their community. They chose three non profits to receive those funds. I was contacted by the Reverend Gail Addison of End Time Harvest Ministries and informed that we had been selected to receive a portion of those funds.
Amazingly, these young people had chosen to spend all of the money they raised from a fundraiser, not on themselves! Rather, they chose to give to those in the community around them who were in need. Now HOW BOUT THAT for today's youths?!!!

Although I needed to leave the presentation early and missed out on the rest of the event, I was so amazed by the maturity of this group of young people. We would do well to learn from them!

I look forward to hearing more positive things from them in the future as I am sure they are the ones who will be our future leaders. If you want to get behind a group of youngsters who are making a difference in the world around them, the Port Towns Youth Council would be the wisest choice you could make!

Failed Suicide Attempt Leads Man to Call the Streetlights Hotline

Rev Bobbi — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 04:47:00 GMT

Suicide seemed the only way to end the pain. David was freezing to death and he knew it. Trying to end the pain, David decided to hang himself, but he was too drunk and too cold to hook the tree with the rope. After several attempts he gave up in despair.   Having failed at his suicide attempt, at the urging of a friend, David called the Streetlights Crisis Hotline.

It took four days of calling in before he trusted enough to talk about the suicide attempt.  As it happened, Streetlights partnered with the Department of Social Services during the "Point In Time" survey of the homeless. I had asked David to meet us to be counted and it was during the interview that David did tell another PIT volunteer, Mr. Al Aji Dumbuya of UCAP, and I about his failed attempt and with that step of faith and trust, his road to recovery began.


   Another PIT/ Streetlights volunteer, Mr. Jorge Luna, of The Agape' House and I were able to convince David to go to the Washington Adventist Hospital ER where he was first treated for physical needs and then he was transferred to the Behavioral Health unit.

Upon his release from the hospital, I took David the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Center, where he was admitted.
    David and Rev. Bobbi at the Salvation Army.

STREETLIGHTS OF BETHANY December 2009 REPORT

Rev Bobbi — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 04:58:00 GMT

This December, Streetlights of Bethany ministered to over 46 clients. Of those 46 clients, some were families which I counted as one client. Of those 46 clients, 26 suffer with varying degrees of mental illness. Most were Bi-Polar; manic depressive, some are paranoid skitzoprenics, some hear voices, others are so debillitated by addictions that they are unable to function in society. Many suffer from anxiety disorders, OCD, clinical depression, and three were suicidal. One called herself Snowbell Midnight and another prayed out loud while in my car that God would not let him hurt me. Five were hospitalized. Some went into Reality House, others Safe Haven and three were admitted into Oxford House. We also placed some coming out of The Agape House into Safe Journey, while others also completed the programs in Realtiy or Safe Journey and needed assistance with aftercare plans. It is a joy to find such dedicated organizatins as those that I partner with on a daily basis. Streetlights placed one individual into Riverdale Presbyterian Shelter, another into the SOME program, a family into Shepherd’s Cove. I drove two men to Central Union Mission, drove another one to The Salvation Army, referred several to and visited and served in Safe Haven and will be serving in Warm Nights. I visited the churches at their requests. I also ministered to clients and/ or their families who were referred from NAMI, CUCE, CLC, Greenbelt CARES, Greenbelt Police, Catholic Charities, Bladensburg Police Department, Prince George's Hospital’s Psych Ward and also Washington Adventist Emergency Psych Unit. Streetlights visits clients in hospitals, private homes and Arlington County Jail, as well as on the streets, in the woods and under bridges. . I have listed only a partial list of partners, acknowledging that without our partnerships, our work of love unto The Lord Jesus would not have been possible. Without these friends and co-laborers, we could not provide the wrap around care that is our mandate. It is of utmost importance to state that none of this could have been possible without the blessings of our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. We wish especially to thank NAMI who has sustained us with their generous support.

Streetlights of Bethany provided Christmas for over twenty children, both full Christmas dinners and toys. Through the generosity of one of our partners, The First Baptist Church of Laurel, we were able to bless over 20 homeless individuals with warm, new winter coats. Due to the kindess of Cheryl of First Baptist church in Laurel, we are able to blessed Run Your Race with computers and provide after school program materials to the ministries at University Christian Church. Also I want to thank Robin Vestal, Donnna O'Donnel, Sue Coles, Bessie Colding, Seargent Davis and Dana Duncan of the Bladensburg Police Department. who along with Glen Arden Baptist Church and First Methodist Church in College Park for the food and clothing donations. Christmas was much happier for many because of them. All these blessings were made possible through our partnerships with NAMI, CUCE, Bladensburg PD, University Christian Church, Day Spring Community Church, The Samaritan Way, Trinity Assembly of God, Riverdale Presbyterian Church, Christian Life Center, Passion and Compassion, First Baptist Church of Glen Arden and several dedicated volunteers.

A special note of praise to our Lord regarding Gary. He has had his surgery and is now in the LARS program and living in a beautiful one bedroom apartment!! The years of homelessness ended, he will be able to focus on maintaining sobriety and other issues. The LARS program will provide him with intensive wrap around care! We are so grateful to our Lord and to LARS!

Some of how God has used Streetlights of Bethany in November and early December of 2009

Rev Bobbi — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:38:00 GMT

Tommy: Phone calls and trips to Martinsburg, WV. Tommy has cancer which was diagnosed while he was in the VA Hospital being treated for PTSD. He is a long term client.

Gary is now in an Oxford House. I am still trying to find a place for him to recuperate after his surgery. This month we have been partnering with

The Salvation Army where I placed him, however, he could not stay due to physical condition which prevented him from continuing to work there.
Safe Journey House where he completed the program. It was here that we were able to get his surgery scheduled
Christian Life Center where his mail goes
Oxford House where he is now staying while he awaits his surgery date
Laurel Advocacy Services where he is on the list for permanent housing
His doctor’s office

Linda is now in her own apartment and self sufficient. One of the homeless men I met told me he heard she was doing well and wants to get into the program she is in. He was very encouraged by her success. She was a chronically homeless alcoholic with untreated Bi-Polar Disorder.

Through our partnerships with First Baptist Church of Glen Arden and University Christian Church, Streetlights of Bethany was able to provide 16 baskets to those in need for Thanksgiving and transport them to the people. Among them:

senior citizens
families who were recently homeless and now in their own homes
families who are extremely poor
an Oxford House
Ex- Offender’s family
Agape House Jail Ministry

We have provided many meals to the homeless and partner with several agencies, ministries, individuals to do so. Some provide the food, others cook, and others distribute

Streetlights was able to provide a bed, bedding, a dresser and lamp to Bobby who is now in his own home.

We were able to place Cathy into the Riverdale Presbyterian Church shelter. She had been living in her car even though she works 2 jobs

Jimmy is now in Reality House. When I began working with him, he was living in the woods. He is an alcoholic, senior citizen, chronically homeless, paranoid schizophrenic. I placed him in Safe Journey House and partnered with them, his mother and Reality House to get him in their programs. I also was key in getting his SSI check from his sister who is his payee and was holding the check. When Jimmy completed Safe Journey House, I drove him to Reality House. I also bought him clothes, a coat, food and personal items. While in Reality House I bought him a birthday present and took it, a card and frosting for the cake. They had not known it was his birthday, but when I told them, they gave him a surprise party.

I advocated for F.M. during her stay at PG Hospital, E400 ward while she was there due to suicidal tendencies. I was able to get her into Reality House where she is doing well.

Streetlights paid for Robert M’s birth certificate and also for a resident at Oxford House to take him to DC to get the certificate, paid for the parking, their food and the volunteer’s gas. I will be taking Robert to get his state issued picture ID this week. This enabled me to help the Oxford House Resident while I was helping Robert.

I took 2 men to MVA. One got ID and the other a driver’s license so he could accept a job offer to drive for a company.

Streetlights provided brand new coats through the generosity of First Baptist Church of Laurel for twelve men who were homeless. Most were alcoholics, many were on meds. Some were physically and most appeared to have mental and/or physical challenges. We talked about getting into programs, going to detox, etc. One I went to the ER with. One has gone to the S.O.M.E. program to request admittance into their long term rehab program.

Streetlights was instrumental in implementing a tutoring program for children with special needs who are falling behind their classmates.We purchased the program, began teaching, and then presented it to University Christian Church. One of the members, Bessie Colding, who is a school teacher has agreed to head this outreach program and it will be called: Fun, Faith and Phonics and is now a ministry of University Christian Church.

Through our partnership with First Baptist Church and especially with members Cheryl Rowe and Robin Vestal, we will be able to obtain teaching materials and books for the new After School Programs at University Church.

Streetlights was able to get volunteers and partners to buy Christmas toys, etc. for 16 children.

Max went back home, takes his meds now and he has started attending University Christian Church. He was formerly homeless, asked to leave a shelter because he was too mentally impaired for their program and had called me in despair.

I ministered to a client who has a daughter in Arlington County Jail. I also visited the daughter twice at the jail. This woman has mental illness according to the mother but she does not acknowledge it and has refused to get help in that area. She did say she would contact me when she was released regarding job assistance.

Streetlights was able to provide hiking cups (provided by The Wishing Well Ministry) to about 20 homeless men and women in Laurel and talk with several of them. I am now partnering with First Baptist Church of Laurel in their homeless ministry. Ms. Judith McDonald heads The Wishing Well and has been instrumental in assisting the homeless, especially veterans in our area. What a blessing she is! She had referred a vet to me who was living in a shed, suffers from advanced RA and Streetlights paid for him to stay in a motel one night while we worked on his housing situation. He is now residing at P.G. House and has called to thank us for our help.

Here We Go Again!

Rev Bobbi — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 03:53:00 GMT

Winter is here and the churches are once again opening their doors to those who are without the basic necessitites of life. Warm Nights, WinterHaven and Safe Haven are in full swing.
Today's events for Streetlights:

Advocated for three clients who have mental health issues,
a K.P.nurse called and told me of a woman who is living in her car
collected a second large donation of clothing from Arthritis and Pain Associates of P.G. County in Greenbelt which will be given to the homeless
assisted a homeless man who was referred to me by Roberto in DC
Went to Laurel Regional Hospital, Prince George's Hospital, Safe Journey House, and First Baptist Church of Laurel.

This week alone, I have transported one client from Safe Journey House to Reality House, one from Laurel Regional Hospital to Safe Journey House and assisted in the placement of one client from P. G. Hospital to Safe Journey House and then to Reality House. Partnering with these organizations as we assist the clients with a wrap around care plan is an example of how we as a community working together can make a difference in the lives of so many more than if we each try to "do it alone". As more and more churches, ministries, organizations, agencies, etc. partner our resources we will be able to achieve our individual goals and accomplish our missions. I have been so blessed to see this occuring more and more throughout the years. We are so blessed!

Tonight, I met with Ko Klaver, a friend, co-laboror in Christ and one of the members of The First Baptist Church of Laurel which is this week's host church for Winter Haven. He introduced me to several of the leaders in the church, including ministers and lay people. What a blessing, What joy to meet them all. Though I just met them, it is as if our hearts were knit and we are so excited to see what our Lord has in store for us! So much passion for Christ and what loving service to the homeless! What a joy to meet them and begin a new partnership with them in our service to Jesus as we reach out to the those who are in Winter Haven and to do so in Christ's Name and His Love. It was good to see Donnie of LARS there, as well!

Where We Have Seen More Need, We Have Seen Even More Blessings Fueled By The Love of Christ

Rev Bobbi — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:39:00 GMT

It is with joy that I speak of the Love we share with our partners, volunteers, those we network with, our neighbors, families and friends as we reach out to love those The Lord sends to us and sends us to them.This is indeed His Work and we stand in amazement as He continues to bless in ways that only He could.
The last week has seen more outreach than I could have kept up with, yet God keeps sending us more in reach... By in reach, I mean we have been touched by those who are reaching in to help us help our lambs.

From the community in general
to the partnerships we have, those we network with
to our own clients reaching back to us and volunteering to help us as we help others.

Such love and gratitude is humbling to say the least.

Thanksgiving season alone has seen partnerships between NAMI, CUCE, University Christian Church, Run Your Race Ministries, Christian Life Center, The Samaritan Way, Trinity Assembly of God, Passion and Compassion Ministry, The Spanish Rehabilitation Center, The Wishing Well, Greenbelt CARES, The Town of Bladensburg, The Bladensburg Police Department, The Laurel Regional Hospital Center, The Safe Journey Houses, The Reality House, The Homeless Hotline, The Comfort Inn, an Oxford House, The Family Christian Bookstore, Riverdale Presbyteriain Church, Greenbelt Baptist Church, The Miracles of Jesus MPCC Milagros De Jesucristo, Ager Road United Methodist Church, The Glen Arden Baptist Church, Arlington Virginia County Jail, Prince George's County Jail, Good News Jail and Prison Ministries,

We are in process of building relationships for Christmas needs. We are looking for companies / businesses / churches / individuals who will "adopt" a family or an individual for Christmas blessings. Please contact me: 301-633-5654 if you are interested and let's set up a time to sit down and see how we might partner together!

Below is some of what the last few days have entailed:
Food pickup from University Christian Church, The Bladensburg Police Department, Samaritan Way and Christian Life Center, and Passion and Compassion Ministries

Distributed food to: the homeless in Bladensburg, Greenbelt, Hyattsville, Beltsville, Riverdale, and Capital Heights, to The Oxford House where we have a client, Safe Journey House where we have two clients, a family we assisted in getting into transitional housing in Greenbelt, a senior citizen in The Spellman House in College Park.

Patient client Pick up from Laurel Hosp Center transported to Safe Journey House for intake
Patient client Pickup at Safe Journey House took him to Reality House Interview then back to Safe Journey House. Will take back to Reality House next week for intake.

Wrap Around Care and Partnering Are Key To Successful Placement

Rev Bobbi — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 16:41:00 GMT

This week alone: We placed Jimmy into Safe Journey House, Cathy was accepted into Riverdale Presbyterian Church's shelter, and Lola and 2 little girls were accepted into Shepherd's Cove. God has been so good to us as we endeavor to assist those in crisis to find safety and minister with practical evangelism.

Through our partnering with churches, ministries, organizations, agencies, etc. Streetlights of Bethany has been able to assist all clients who have asked for assistance and truly wanted it. Most notably University Christian Church's Jobs Outreach Ministry, Run Your Race Ministries, CUCE, Riverdale Presbyterian Church, Bladensburg Police Department, CCSi (the crisis hot line), Trinity Assembly of God, Samaritan Way, Christian Life Center, The Salvation Army, and The Department of Social Services have worked together with Streetlights in assisting our most vulnerable neighbors. I say "wanted" because one client chose not to accept housing assistance and drug rehabilitation, another refused to accept assistance into the Salvation Army, admitting that he did not want to stop drinking. At least he was honest!

We continue to provide follow up/ wrap around service to several clients and are encouraged to see them growing in The Lord and overcoming the barriers they have. Thank you Jesus and thank you partners!

We are seeing more families homeless than ever before

Rev Bobbi — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 04:46:00 GMT

I am unable to get in the site as much as before due to the heavy client load at this time. So far in the last two months my case load includes three generation homeless families, single father's with 4 and 5 children, domestic violence victims who are now homeless, several eviction prevention cases, severe depression cases/ suicide prevention, mentally ill senior adults who are living on the streets and the list goes on. So far we have been able to help most of our clients. God has richly blessed us with a strong network of providers. CUCE has been vital to the successful outcome of most of our clients. I cannot thank Rev. Gloria Grant enough! I also want to thank Riverdale Presbyterian Church for housing one of our families at the present time. Thanks to the Lions Club of College Park several of our clients are now able to see clearly. We are in need of businesses to hire our clients. If you are a hiring manager or own your own business; I ask you to consider giving someone a chance. Contact myself at streetlights@verizon.net or Barbara Miller of Run Your Race Ministries: run_your_race@yahoo.com.

I heard back from three clients in the same day this week... all calling to thank me for helping them and updating me on their lives. Very encouraging stuff, too say the least!

End of Summer Update

Rev Bobbi — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 02:48:00 GMT

Although I am still not back to my full schedule, I have been actively working on many different kinds of cases. Streetlights has continued to partner with CUCE and University Christian Church to help Greg, Debbie and daughter, Nicole. They are in their own apartment now, he has his license back and started his new job today!

Greg, Nicole and Debbie

This last month alone I have assisted in a homeless family of eight, another family of five and another family of three. So many hurting people. These last three families are all "three generational families" and all homeless. The family of eight refused help that was available to them, the family of five are in their own apartment now and I have just begun working with the family of three. At the point of intervention, all of these families were on the streets and with very young children. Streetlights could not have accomplished what we did without the help of our partners.

Gary will be going on his second interview as part of his application for permanent housing. He now gets disability payments and we are hopeful that he will very soon be able to receive the surgery so badly needed for his knee and shoulder.

I am also working with another young woman and hoping to assist her in making choices for her life that will indeed be choices for life and not death. So many who start out on that road to slow suicide called "drunkenness" simply are the walking wounded who have not dealt with anger or grief issues. So many are hurting so much inside that they deliberately hurt themselves physically in order to feel anything besides the brokenness of their own hearts.

Spring/ Summer Update

Rev Bobbi — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 23:58:00 GMT

Much has happened, but first let me tell you of the passing of our beloved Dennis Jelallian on July 3, 2009. Dennis suffered a severe stroke and after a brief stay in SICU at Holy Cross Hospital and then his transfer to Woodside Nursing Center, Dennis went home to be with Jesus. He was in the hospital less rhan 2 weeks and at the nursing home less than 24 hours, yet the compassionate care he received was a gift from God. Both facilities were so wonderful to him, I will forever be grateful to them all. I received continual updates from doctors and nurses at the hospital, as well as the director and other staff members of the nursing home during the hours I could not be there for him. Nurses sang to him, read the Bible to him and prayed for him; as well as comforting me. Dennis had no family and had made me his medical power of attorny and I was humbled and honored to serve him. I will miss his laughing eyes and love for Jesus.

I myself am still recovering from the head on collision but God has been merciful and I am still able to continue. My parents gave me their van to replace my car which was totaled so I could use the insurance money to continue the ministry. Please continue to pray for our funding.

The following is a summery of this quarter:

Due to severe car accident in which I was hit head-on by an aggressive driver using the oncoming traffic lane as a passing lane; I have been unable to keep the normal pace up. However I am recovering and am back out in the fields of harvest now. The following cases are not all of the cases I have worked on over the spring /summer months but are some of those I am currently working with or have completed.

The campsite which was in the news recently was one of my main fields of harvest. In partnership with MPCC, Miracles of Jesus as well as the Spiritual Rehab Center, Ager Road United Methodist Church, CUCE, University Christian Church, Christian Life Center, Trinity Assembly of God, SOME, The Salvation Army and The Bladensburg Police Department, Streetlights was able to teach Bible study, do one-on-one counseling, feed, clothe, transport and place into programs/ shelters many men, women and children. Among them:
1. 4 men to The Salvation Army, One returned to the woods and has admitted to killing at least one of the bodies whose skeletal remains were found in Hyattsville in May. The camp site mentioned above is where those men were found. I have ministered directly with at least 15 of those men.
2. 3 men to LaCASA
3. 2 men to the SOME program
4. follow up and continue to assist one grad of the SOME program
5. We also assisted in 3 domestic violence cases
6. housed one DV victim
7. continue to follow up with a PTSD vet
8. placed a senior citizen homeless man into 2 programs before successfully getting him admitted into a group home for the mentally ill
9. I am the power of attorney for a dieing senior citizen I placed in a nursing home a few years ago. I have to make the tough choices for his last days. I am his only family and will continue to minister The Love of Jesus to him until he goes Home to Jesus
10. A suicidal sounding heroin addict called the hotline this morning and two other deeply depressed men called a few days ago. I referred all three men to hospitals. All three men followed my advice and these cases are ongoing.

Networking With PG House, Safe Journey House, DC General, Christ House, SOME, Central Union Mission, CUCE, and The Salvation Army as well as many churches

Rev Bobbi — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 01:06:00 GMT

Jerome is Safe at Safe Journey!!! When I first ministered to Jerome's family, he was homeless, very delusional and refusing treatment. On Feb. 27th, I met with Jerome's Mom and the staff at PG House to partner in obtaining placement for the next phase of his care. On March 6th I transported him to Safe Journey House after they accepted my request for placement. During his stay there, the staff at both houses and I will be working on getting him into housing. These programs have the most caring, qualified staff members. I am honored to work along side of them.

As I look back over the last few winter months, I see Streetlights has been able to place, or be instrumental in getting placed, the following individuals:

Linda W. ... met her through Matt S while they were eating at The Cafe. She was extremely intoxicated and also physically very ill. I took her to the ER where she was admitted for physical conditions first and then transferred to the psych ward for several days. From there she was housed by Streetlights volunteers (The Jackson's) until a bed opened up at which time she was then placed into Safe Journey House, where she completed that program and then entered the Reality House program. She finished the 28 day program and she now is living in their transitional housing unit. Upon completion of that program it is her hope to enter an Oxford House. I continue to work with Linda, as I do all willing clients, during each phase recovery.
Jerome ... transported from PG House to Safe Journey House.
Rubin... met him during JAG operation with Landover Community Response Team, placed him immediately into shelter in Hyattsville for first night he asked for shelter, than the next day when he asked for placement in another program more suited to his goals, I took him to the Salvation Army Rehab in Hyattsville where he was admitted. He called me last week and is doing great. He asked me to assist him in his job search when he is nearing the end of that program. I agreed and told him that I will be introducing him to Barbara Miller of Run Your Race at that time.
Faith .... placed in Safe Housing (Dom. Violence case) upon release from jail in Front Royal, VA. She is in my custody pending interstate compaq agreement when her probation case will transfer to Hyattsville, Maryland.
Johnny J.. Presented my After Care Plan to the public defender's office in Anne Arundel County for Johnny J. which includes letters of acceptance into Safe Journey House and the PEP program, letters of commitment of support from NAMI and Streetlights of Bethany. The Salvation Army is also aware of this case and has agreed to come to the jail and interview him for acceptance into their program. The SOME program would have accepted him, but his residency is in Maryland. I am working with his probation officer who has already accepted my aftercare plan for Johnny.
Linda ... I transported her and she was placed in shelter in DC General Hospital Women's Shelter after the Hyattsville Police Department called me to ask for assistance for her.
Joseph ... met him at Safe Haven, but he could not remain in that program because he was too mentally ill and physically ill for their program. I called the Crisis Hot line and they accepted him into PG House, I drove him there. From there he was taken to the hospital. I networked with the hospital and they took my request to place him into Heartland of Adelphi Nursing Home. He was there for a couple of days while I worked with them to get him placed into another facility. They placed him into a group home which was not equipped to handle his needs but was kind enough to keep him until such time as a bed could be found in a group home for the mentally ill. I was able within a few days to find placement for him in a private home setting which specialized in Joseph's particular needs. He is now "home" and safe and happy with his new family. .
Victoria... transported and placed into an AA group home rehab program in Baltimore, closer to her family.
Carl ... placed first into Central Union Mission (transported there upon acceptance)... upon my request, he was taken to hospital from there due to 3 stab wounds that needed treatment. After being released, he could not return to Central Union due to safety issues for him and also the other men. I then asked for and received placement into Christ House and transported him there. They agreed to transport him into SOME after a bed was ready for him and he was medically released to go. I had asked SOME to network with us on this case and they agreed. Carl was admitted into the SOME program, has completed all but the final stages of the program and then will be placed into transitional housing. I referred him to Barbara Miller of Run Your Race for Job preparedness and they are currently working together. He is doing great.
Tommy... I met him while he was living in the woods and had been for many years. I was able to get custody of him while we awaited interstate compact agreement to transfer to Martinsburg West Virginia V. A. Hospital where he is now a patient. He is doing well and we follow up with him almost daily. He is court ordered into that program but upon release we will have him in housing.
Pedro.. Transported to Salvation Army, they transported to LaCasa Shelter, I went and asked that the men be placed into program. I've followed up and all three men are doing great.
Hosea ...Transported to Salvation Army, they transported to LaCasa Shelter, I went and asked that the men be placed into program. I've followed up and all three men are doing great.
Roberto... Transported to Salvation Army, they transported to LaCasa Shelter, I went and asked that the men be placed into program. I've followed up and all three men are doing great.
Glen ... Warm Nights program
Terry, transported to Detox, DC General, was admitted
Gary .. transported to Detox in DC General
Randolph ... transported and placed in DC General mental health ward
The Starke family of four ... raised funds for first month's rent and utilities

Rejoicing in His Goodness!

Rev Bobbi — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 04:05:00 GMT

Just a quick note as is late but has been awhile since I've been able to post in here due to the winter crisis which has combined with the economy crisis. The numbers of people being served is greatly increasing and my heart continues to break for the lambs God has placed in my care. So much sadness, so much pain and suffering... yet, when they meet Jesus ... so much joy, so much victory in the valley. These babies learn quickly that God is The Lord of the Valleys of life's journey as well as the Lord of life's mountain top experiences! They meet Christ in the valley and He takes them to the mountain top where he restores their souls and mends their broken hearts. Some remain in the valley without seeing change in their circumstances, others not only find a new life in Christ; they also get a new life to start over... new friends, new morals, new hope, new joy, etc.!!!

Earlier this winter, I ministered to a mother who's grown son suffered from severe mental illness but who would not take his medications or go for treatment. After talking with her she agreed to call the Crisis Response Team and they came out and had him taken for evaluation. At that time he was placed in the hospital. I received a praise report from her today that her son is in his right mind for the most part, taking his medications, going for job interviews and has gone from hospitilization to the P.G. House during this miraculous recovery. However his time is up there, so I am scrambling to find appropriate housing for him. I was only informed about his need today, which is Thursday evening, and Jerome has only a few days left before his time at P. G. House will be over. I am confident that our Lord will direct our paths as we search. Please keep this in prayer.

Tommy Patterson needs prayer for healing. He has recently been diagnosed with a very serious illness but is confidant that "God has it all under control" as he puts it. :=) What a joy Tommy is. He loves The Lord so much!

I received a letter from Greg Ellison. He was so excited over all the blessings that Jesus has rained upon he and his family. We were able to partner with CUCE and Run Your Race and through them this family was able not only to remain in their housing, but also received food, clothing, job assistance, and other blessings. We will hear soon if he received the job he wants the most.

I went to Prince George's County Correctional Center today and was able to minister to 4 men there. Two of those men want to go into rehab programs upon release.

I was able to bless a homeless family with bags of clothing which had been donated to us by the Department of Social services. Little Hands for Peace called and will be doing a "Blessings Drive" for the homeless. These young children are so compassinate, loving and also so informed. What an absolute joy to work with them.

So much more to tell you, but MUST go to bed it is 11:30 and I must be at the PG House by 10 am to assist Jerome and his mom.

Thank you for your support, especially for your prayers.

Coats and shirts by the dozens donated by Cristian Life Center

Rev Bobbi — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 04:04:00 GMT

Pastor Ben Slye gave me dozens of brand new winter jackets and shirts for the men being sheltered by Miracles of Jesus! Nice heavy jackets and all of them brand new with tags! Now that's giving Jesus your best --- at it's best!

One of the men was very ill last week and Rev. Irma insisted that he go to the emergency room that night even though he wanted to wait. He just wanted to sleep. When Luna called me to ask if I could come get him, I left to do so immediately. Luna and I waited for hours in the emergency room together while waiting for them to assess him. Then, I was told by the ER nurse that Jose' would have died if we had not brought him in that night! He needed blood transfusions as he was in critical condition due to extreme anemia. He received great care and was released back to the church's care today! I was overjoyed to hear his voice when Luna put him on the phone for me to talk to him. He sounds like a new man! We are praying for him to indeed become a new man in Christ. God has been so merciful to him.

Today I helped Trinity Assembly of God's food and clothing distribution ministry called " The Samaritan Way". I will be helping with Christian Life Center's P&C Banquet on the second Saturday of the month.

John and Debbi and their child are a family I have been assisting while they try to get back on their feet after lay offs.

January Update

Rev Bobbi — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 07:26:00 GMT

With the winter season upon us, I have precious little time to get on the site and apologize for not getting it updated quicker. I also will be unable to do complete update at this time. But briefly:

In Riverdale: CrossWalkers Riverdale has now completed the successful transition from my teaching that cell group to Ms. Barbara Miller of Run Your Race now facilitating it. It is my goal to start CrossWalkers in any church where I bring those I have ministered to who need more intensive Bible Study and counseling. At first I facilitate and as one of the Disciple makers of that area who attends steps forward to lead, I turn it over to them in order to concentrate on new "babies". CrossWalkers is a cell group of three levels of participants. Pre-Disciples, Disciples and Disciple Makers. All three attend the same group. This is a Bible Study/ Discussion Group where questions are encouraged and the tools to studying the Bible are taught. Personal application of God's Word is the main focus. It is with joy that I see Barbara take the leadership of the Riverdale Cell Group which meets at the church house at Christian Life Center.

In Chillum: There is a large group of homeless men who were living in the woods. Luna, who is a missionary to the Spanish homeless community in that area introduced me to some of the men a few weeks ago. I was able to bring several blankets to the men, food and clothing. The first man I met through Luna was the young man in the left hand side of picture with quilted coat on. His name is Otis... and he is the hungriest man I have EVER met... hungry for The Word of God!!!! Every time I see him.. he asks for a Bible Study!!!! What a joy Luna and Otis are!!!! .

Luna is man in center front and Otis is behind him to your left, Luna's right.

Three of those men went into LaCasa, a couple were in Warm Nights. But many still remained in the woods. A couple of weeks ago, a man came to the campsite late in the evening and did not go into the shed where the other men had taken shelter. He fell asleep outside without even a blanket and froze to death. Since that night most of the men have come into the church near the site and are being fed and given nite shelter. I have been assisting Chaplain Romero and his wife, Rev. Irma Romero who are pastors in this church in their efforts to serve the men. Streetlights has been providing bags of clothing, Bibles, food and more blankets. Without the donations provided by Christian Life Center, End Time Harvest, Restoration Church, The First Baptist Church of Hyattsville, The Bladensburg Police Department, Run Your Race, Donna O, Sue Coles and so many others we could not have blessed them as we did. I was also able to donate to them a refrigerator which had been donated to me previously. I want to give a special thanks to Luna for his service to our Lord.

In Landover: I went out with Officer Sheehan of the Landover Police Department's Community Response Team and we visited sites where we were able to engage several homeless individuals. As a result, I am working with at least 5 men and 2 women from that area again. Only 2 are repeat clients. Carl Crawford who is from that same area is now in phase 3 of SOME's 4 part program and very excited about his new life in Christ. The other men in that area now are wanting to go through the same program he is in. They know him as "Monk" but would not recognize Carl today... indeed a new creation! See his picture with me in previous posting.

Hyattsville: I met Linda W. through another client, Matthew Savage who called me to come to The Cafe which is a soup kitchen. I took Linda to PG Hospital ER where she was admitted. Upon release she stayed with Streetlight Volunteers Mr. and Mrs. Jackson until there was an available bed at Safe Journey House. Linda completed that program and is not in Reality House where I will see her tomorrow to pay for some medicine she needs after dental work they provided. She is doing GREAT!

Riverdale: Joseph McCrone is a senior citizen who I took to the same hospital where he also was admitted. From there he went into Heartland of Adelphi for a brief stay. He is now in his own apartment through the kind efforts of the owners of S & J's Restaurant as well as the help of a volunteer named Theresa who has cared for him as though he were her own brother.

I could go on and on... but it is after 3 am so I better quit.... more later. God bless you all.... and.. please if you believe this is a work God would have you to support please don't delay! We NEED your help! Make checks payable to Streetlights of Bethany if you want to donate to the work itself and payable to Rev. Bobbi if you want to provide a love gift to me. Mail them to Streetlights, PO Box 432, Riverdale, Maryland 20738. As a missionary... how can I go unless I am sent... He said He would make us Fishers of men.. Let's Go Fishin' !!!

Dennis Jelallian

Rev Bobbi — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 21:14:00 GMT

I received a call from one of our homeless men, Dennis Jelallian, who is now a resident of Heartland of Adelphi Nursing Home.
Dennis called as he wanted to see if I could help him find his family. He is in late 70’s. Last year he was first referred to me by a concerned citizen and later that same day was also referred to me by Greenbelt CARES. That same night, I met him at Greenbelt Baptist Church. Dennis was living on the streets. Greenbelt Cares and Streetlights networked together to get him off of the streets and into shelter. After he trusted me, I was able to get him to accept the Safe Haven Program and upon their acceptance, I transported him to the host church.
I assigned a Streetlights volunteer to work with him and she continued to provide him spiritual and emotional support as well as to transport him to the various places he needed to go to in order to get assistance. Through her I learned that Dennis was going to leave the program, so I met with him and asked if he would be willing to go to Warm Nights and hopefully to the PG House. After using my phone to speak with a CCSi worker at the Homeless Hotline, he was accepted. As I had a conflict in my schedule, I called his Streetlights volunteerI asked her to provide transportation during his transition from The Safe Haven Program to the Warm Nights Program. I explained to Dennis that I would try to get him into the PG House. When he was accepted, he was then transported to the PG House. While at the PG House, Dennis asked if I could find his family, which was accomplished through the aid of Chris Anderson, a photographer and a reporter from the Gazette. A social worker from DSS saw the story and joined in the effort to find his family. The family was found but declined to be re-united. Sadly, many of the homeless population have burned bridges with family and friends. Sometimes they can be rebuilt, but other times it is as in this case.
Now, I am his family and am proud of the honor. What ever he was, he is now a very delightful gentleman who loves Jesus.

CCSi was instrumental in getting Dennis into the Warm Nights Program and the PG House where he was staying when he became quite ill and was rushed to the hospital. His diabetes and heart problems necessitated almost a month long stay at the PG County Hospital. He was placed in Heartland of Adelphi for rehabilitation and has made the adjustment quite well.

CARL CRAWFORD'S TESTIMONY

Rev Bobbi — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 21:06:00 GMT

From Carl's Heart to ours:

I’m still here at S.O.M.E. in West Virginia. I am the secretary of the house and have five months clean. I am learning how to deal with my emotions and feelings and addressing all issues that I can think of in my past.

I have encountered some wonderful people here: my case manager and other members of the staff. They have broken through my hard shell. They’ve tenderized my heart; I am very open now. Jesus has softened my heart through my counselors and especially my primary counselor, Ray Paulson. I am going to church; I really like my church, AGAPE.

God has been sending others to me so I can help share how Jesus has been helping me and He is helping others through me. This process in my life is what I have been looking for .. I was searching. I thought it was in drugs, alcohol, working, fornication..But, I have found the answer is The Spirit of God that dwells in me… that is what is making me happy! The joy you hear in my voice is God in me.

I was destitute, strung out, living in the streets, anywhere I could sleep. I was eating out of trash cans, smoking, drinking, doing crack and fornicating. I put myself in harms way all the time. I was killing myself. I am beginning now to come around.

Picture of Rev and Carl taken at Exodus House this past weekend when Rev. Bobbi and Ms. Sue Coles went to visit Carl for the holidays. We also visited Tommy Patterson who is still in VA Hospital in Martinsburg West Va.

There is a special person in my life... Rev Bobbi. There is nothing I could do or say... What she did for me when I called her... I still remember her exact words. “Don’t move! I will be right there to get you!” I had knife wounds in my back. It was hard for me to stay there, I still had some money and could get some more booze.

When I saw that pink cross on her antenna.. I knew there was a journey ahead of me. Rev. Bobbi led me to where I am at today. She asked me when I get better and I am able to do something for someone else, unconditionally.. do it.. and I said “I will” … and I am!

Now, I am being led by The Spirit. My carnal mind led me to the woods, to drink.. but this promise God has given me: abide in Me, love Me and I will give you your heart’s desires. I know He is not done with me, I know there’s more to come!!! I’m gonna follow Him.

Dennis Jelallian

Rev Bobbi — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 04:51:00 GMT

I received a call from one of our homeless men, Dennis Jelallian, who is now a resident of Heartland of Adelphi Nursing Home.
Dennis called as he wanted to see me and come to a service with him. He playes piano there and wanted me to know that. I came and was delighted to see him smiling and indeed, playing the piano quite well!

He is in late 70’s. Last year he was first referred to me by a concerned citizen and later that same day was also referred to me by Greenbelt CARES. That same night, I met him at Greenbelt Baptist Church. Dennis was living on the streets. Greenbelt Cares and Streetlights networked together to get him off of the streets and into shelter. After he trusted me, I was able to get him to accept the Safe Haven Program and upon their acceptance, I transported him to the host church.
I assigned a Streetlights volunteer to work with him and she continued to provide him spiritual and emotional support as well as to transport him to the various places he needed to go to in order to get assistance. Through her I learned that Dennis was going to leave the program, so I met with him and asked if he would be willing to go to Warm Nights and hopefully to the PG House. After using my phone to speak with a CCSi worker at the Homeless Hotline, he was accepted. As I had a conflict in my schedule, I called his Streetlights volunteer and asked her to provide transportation during his transition from The Safe Haven Program to the Warm Nights Program. I explained to Dennis that I would try to get him into the PG House. When he was accepted, he was then transported to the PG House. While at the PG House, Dennis asked if I could find his family, which was accomplished through the aid of Chris Anderson, a photographer and a reporter from the Gazette. A social worker from DSS saw the story and joined in the effort to find his family. The family was found but declined to be re-united. Sadly, many of the homeless population have burned bridges with family and friends. Sometimes they can be rebuilt, but other times it is as in this case.
Now, I am his family and am proud of the honor. What ever he was, he is now a very delightful gentleman who loves Jesus.

CCSi was instrumental in getting Dennis into the Warm Nights Program and the PG House where he was staying when he became quite ill and was rushed to the hospital. His diabetes and heart problems necessitated almost a month long stay at the PG County Hospital. He was placed in Heartland of Adelphi for rehabilitation and has made the adjustment quite well.

Thanksgiving Update

Rev Bobbi — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 16:48:00 GMT

Currently, Streetlights is working with so many clients that I am unable to get on the site as often as I would like but will give you some of the types of cases as an update.
Carl is in SOME, Tommy Patterson is doing great in Martinsburg W VA's VA hospital, Victoria is in an Oxford House, Randolf is in DC General's programs, Rose is in housing and has good job, Larry and Chuck are in housing and working and active in Christian Life Center. Susan and daughter, Tammy are very active in Christian Life Center and still living at the shelter. They are still trying to get Tammy who is autistic into an adult day care facility so that Susan can go to work full time.

A family of four, The Starks, are still looking for housing while staying with relatives. The family came to our area from Michigan. The oldest son has severe asthma, the mom is working and Dad is joining the military. Streetlights has raised $800 to be used along with their savings, to assist them in obtaining housing. They have applied for an apartment and we are waiting to hear. We were able to assist the mother of a mentally ill man, Jerome, in obtaining medical help and shelter this week. Streetlights is partnering with The Salvation Army, NAMI, PEP, Safe Journey, Rev. Talbert, Rev. Slye and Jessup to get John Jackson into the Salvation Army program upon his release from Jessup.

We were able to get a homeless man who was living in the woods, Andrew Wilson, into the Warm Nights program. Christian Life Center provided transportation. Chuck was the driver!! Pastor Slye of CLC introduced me to Andrew at the Homeless Banquet hosted by The Alamo Restaurant in Riverdale Maryland and organized by Rev. Ben Slye. I do not have the exact figures yet, but it was close to one thousand people served. They were given full Thanksgiving Dinner as well as bread and clothing!

We partnered with four churches and The City of Hyattsville to get food to over 20 families and also provided the Thanksgiving Dinner for New Life for Girls in Westminister Maryland! Praise God for His bountiful blessings!

Carl is doing GREAT!!!!!

Rev Bobbi — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 16:25:00 GMT

Carl Crawford, the man in the middle, called on Thanksgiving Day to give thanks!!

What a joy to hear from him! He is a very humble and joy filled Christian man now and all thanks goes to our
Precious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Carl is in the SOME program and I rejoice to witness his victory
in Jesus! I am so grateful to our Lord for allowing me to see the fruit of my labors in this man's life! When I
met Carl, he was living on the streets, was bleeding from stab wounds in his back and in total despair of life.
What a joy to know he is now a new creation, filled with love and peace and in good health as well!!!! Wow!

Coats Hats Gloves Scarves Socks Needed Urgently

Rev Bobbi — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 07:27:00 GMT

Please put the word out that we are in need of warm clothing, especially large size men's clothing. Also we need blankets, leaf size plastic bags to keep the blankets dry while on the ground and we could also use toiletries, especially flushable wet wipes. Contact Rev. Bobbi or drop them off at Passion and Compassion at Christian Life Center on Taylor Road in Riverdale, Maryland. Thank you all for your help through material and financial donations, your volunteer service and most especially for your prayers.