Christ Centered Restoration during the Storms of Life
In 2011 a group of passionate followers of Jesus determined to do something for the homeless children in the sun Prairie School District and their single moms. Inspired by the work of Open House Ministries in Vancouver, WA Shelter from the Storm Ministries was born.
Their mission is to provide relief, rehabilitation, and development through:
• Shelter: finding housing for those facing homelessness
• Training: Teaching life skills leading to independence
• Opportunity: providing a network of community resources
• Relationship: connect with God, self, and others and creation
• Mentoring: modeling with compassion and accountability
• Support: encouraging through prayer, listening and leadership
Families accepted into the program learn Bible based life skills through an in-house group study called Kingdom Keys, and participate in a Women’s study named Welcome to the Kingdom. The Moms are also schooled in a Dave Ramsey style financial management program. Clients are considered graduates of the program when they have found stable, permanent housing, set and follow a monthly budget, are employed in a stable work environment, are emotionally stable, and feel they can start giving back to the community with their time and talents.
SFTSM benefits from the broad support of local church communities through monthly congregational pledges as well as individual donations and volunteers. They host a successful annual fundraiser every June called Praise in the Prairie. Clients are assessed a modest weekly program fee. Remarkably, the organization has no paid staff. They have over 300 volunteers as well as in-kind donations from businesses and individuals.
The Madison Christian Giving Fund is partnering with SFTSM with a grant to help renovate and furnish the upper level of a recently acquired shelter home in Emerald Terrace. The shelter, when completed, will be able to house up to 12 families, each in their own small apartment. The common area will be used for the KINGDOM KEYS Bible study, a reception area, a computer lab, child’s play area, small library and craft area.
Scott Haumersen, Chairman of the FUND, says “we love what Shelter from the Storm is doing for kids and single moms in Sun Prairie. Their strategy of forging partnerships with churches, businesses and individuals, and inviting volunteers to bring hope to those who need it most is inspiring. We are proud to be able to support their work.”
Photo: Some of the 300 volunteers wrote scripture verses on the studs for the new facility.