Lauryl W., age 23, says, “Last Christmas, I was in the midst of my addiction. I did not see my family. I was in a relationship with a man who I thought loved me. He was physically abusive to me. My hope for this Christmas is mental freedom. My mental health is so important. I am grateful to be sober and surrounded by people who make me feel welcomed.”
Dear Gilgal Family and Friends,
As we enter this special time of year, we want to reflect on what this season truly means. What has been your favorite part of the Christmas season? Sharing a meal with family and friends? Spending quality time with loved ones? Celebrating the wonder of salvation and God’s love for us?
As you ponder these questions, I want to pause and thank you for your gracious support of Gilgal. Change is possible for Lauryl and Misty because of you.
WHY DOES CHANGE NEED TO HAPPEN?
In the Atlanta community alone, on any given day there are more than 1,000+ women experiencing homelessness and addiction. At Gilgal, Lauryl and Misty are examples of the many women who come to us in crisis.
- 100% of Gilgal residents meet the official definitions of “poverty” and “homeless”
- 75% of Gilgal women are victims of childhood abuse, neglect, or trauma
- 75% of Gilgal women have received at least one mental health diagnosis
- 60% of Gilgal women are victims of intimate partner violence
- 40% of Gilgal residents have had their children removed by protective services
WHAT IMPACT IS GILGAL MAKING?
Gilgal is a Christ-centered, long-term, recovery residence for women experiencing homelessness due to drugs and/or alcohol addiction. We are a cost-effective organization with an important mission to metro-Atlanta and greater Georgia. Gilgal provides housing and nutrition, as well as a full range of recovery services including spiritual enrichment, life skills training, workforce development, love, and ongoing support to women in need.
- Gilgal programs are free of charge – eliminating barriers to receiving services
- Gilgal serves single women over the age of 18
- Gilgal has 3 residences and serves an average of 50 women yearly
- Gilgal women come from all walks of life and socio-economic backgrounds
- Crack, Alcohol and Meth are the top 3 drugs of choice for Gilgal women
The result is life-changing transformation that includes job growth, life skills, education attainment and most importantly reconnection to people who love them. Your support will help them experience warmth and care this winter, throughout the year and for the rest of their lives. Your support can help them dream again.
Merry Christmas and thank you for faithfully partnering with us. Change happens at Gilgal because of you. We wish you every blessing for a healthy and prosperous 2022!
With gratitude,
Val Cater
Executive Director
Misty M., age 35, says, “Last Christmas was very depressing for me. I was using, isolating and grieving the loss of a special friend. I did not want to celebrate. This Christmas, I have found the deeper meaning. It is about redemption and a Savior. This is far more meaningful than what the world has shown me. I have come to a place of acceptance on the death of my loved one. I have begun the process of healing.”
