For the next few days we will be sharing stories from Calvary Women's Services. I've had the privilege of serving monthly meals at Calvary for a few years with Peace Fellowship, and it has always been such a joy to eat dinner with the residents. Calvary is located on Good Hope Road, SE, and offers women transitional and long term housing support, educational classes and activities, job placement services, and therapy. Their goal is to "provide women with “a safe, caring place for tonight; support, hope and change for tomorrow.”
Catherine's* Story
Catherine is a survivor. She was homeless on the streets of D.C. just a month ago. She slept in parks, rode the metro and buses all day and night, as long as she could, until they closed down. She was getting away from domestic violence and depression, but being on the streets made her feel alone. "When no one else was here for me, Calvary was here for me." When I ask her how she came to Calvary, she tells me that she found out about it online and just called. She was added to Calvary’s waiting list, but she ended up only waiting a few weeks before moving in.
"They've helped me with my depression - I've learned coping skills - it's a good place here. It helps you get through your issues. I can talk to anyone here - they listen, and that makes me feel good."
Catherine enjoys the weekly painting class on Wednesdays. Her painting from last week is an image of our planet with a dollar sign on it. Surrounding it are words like love, happiness, wisdom, mercy, peace, and glory. "These are the things that you need to get money, and the things that money can give you.” This week's drawing is an image of blooming flowers. "I'm feeling good today. I wanted to paint flowers to show growth and happiness. I've always liked color. I like that I can express how I feel with my painting."
*Name changed for confidentiality.