Q4 2024 Newsletter
A Message from our Development Director, Matt McGee
December and January are times of reflection. It seems like every app on my phone is sending me some version of “This Year Wrapped.” They’re fun! It’s good to reflect on the year and briefly relive the highs and lows.
This year I’ve wrestled with the age old question of why bad things happen to people who don’t deserve it. I know the Bible study answers, but if I’m honest, none those answers made it easier to walk past the doors of House of Cherith and wonder why everything had to happen to these women, girls, and children before they found us.
I say “age-old” question because, of course, people have pondered this back to the Old Testament where we find the story of Job: a man who experienced tragedy and evil more than he deserved. It’s a frustrating story because it doesn’t really answer the question, but I’ve learned something new from Job as I’ve met the survivors at House of Cherith: there are people who have experienced tragedy and evil and still believe that God is good. Maybe we all can learn from this wisdom.
Before we share the impact of the last quarter with you, I want to offer you this ‘HOC Wrapped.’ Here are moments from Rewrite Blog where House of Cherith residents and graduates told us about the work of God in their lives.
"God led me to House of Cherith."
"I’ve faced various struggles but have been able to tap into the things House of Cherith taught me and the life that was spoken over me during that time."
“If I had a million tongues I couldn't thank God enough for House of Cherith.”
"I knew Jesus was going to meet me where I went and He did."
"The Lord has done a mighty work in my life."
"A piece of advice I have for other residents would be to understand that there is so much more life to live. I want to remind them that they are stronger than they think and capable of anything they can dream of. Build your foundation on God.”
"The friends and ladies I met while at House of Cherith are still close to me. We still talk to this day and always check on each other. They are constant reminders of God’s love and how He healed us from the trauma we endured!
"I was finally at my breaking point of not wanting to be on earth anymore - but God told me that He had more for me."
"When I finally got the courage to leave and find help, God brought me to House of Cherith."
I hope that these testimonies of light in the darkness will stick with you in 2025 so that, like our brave residents, you will stay wrapped in the goodness of God.
You're Invited to the Rewrite Ladies Luncheon!
You're invited to our Rewrite Ladies Luncheon on February 27, 2025!
Rewrite is our signature women’s luncheon where you can disconnect, renew, and connect with friends while helping rewrite the stories of women who have survived sexual trauma and exploitation. We are thrilled to share that our keynote speaker will be Danielle Strickland, a talented writer and podcast host who will remind us of our deep need for hope, faith, and love.
Ways to Give in 2025
As we step into 2025, we invite you to join us in the Fight for Freedom. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of the women and children healing from a past of sexual exploitation and trauma.
There are many ways you can get involved—whether it's attending our events, becoming a part of our monthly giving community, or sponsoring rooms for our residents. Choose the opportunity that resonates most with you.
Your donation enables us to provide safe housing and vital services to women and families healing from the trauma of trafficking and exploitation. By standing with us, you help create a future filled with hope and restoration.
Graduation
We had the honor of celebrating 12 incredible women graduating from House of Cherith! We are beyond proud of these strong, determined ladies and their unwavering commitment to their journey toward freedom. Each of them worked tirelessly to reclaim their dignity, restore their faith in humanity, and rekindle their passion for a future filled with success.
To make the day even more special, we surprised one of our graduates with a car giveaway! It was a day to remember and we couldn't be more excited for the bright futures ahead of these amazing women!
Clay Shoot Recap
On November 7 we hosted our House of Cherith Clay Shoot Tournament. We raised over $60,000 to support our mission of providing safe housing and support services to women and families who have experienced the traumas of sexual trafficking and exploitation.
Thank you to everyone who joined us! Check out our 2025 events and learn how you can get involved!
Story of Hope
"House of Cherith was no doubt a second chance at the life I was meant to have. It has prepared me with the tools to succeed and the motivation to become the mother and the woman I always knew I could be. I know I haven’t seen everything yet; I can only imagine how God plans to use me. I want my testimony to be more than my miracle; I want to use my story to tell other young girls all that HOC has done for me. I want them to know they are loved, worth it, and capable of overcoming their struggles.
House of Cherith introduced me to a job working with kids at a school. I have dreamed of working with young adolescents since I was young. Who knew I would live the life and speak from experience? Only God knows how grateful I am for all HOC has done for me. I now have a home for my 4-year-old daughter and my 17-year-old son. And I know “He” is still working in me.”
-A | House of Cherith Resident
