FORT WORTH — When Ruth relocated from New York to Texas, she hoped to start a new chapter in her life. But without a network of support and full-time employment, she quickly found herself homeless and uncertain of what the future would hold.
“I did receive some short-term help,” Ruth said, “but the lack of contacts and job opportunities made it impossible to stay afloat. I ended up homeless and living at Union Gospel Mission.”
Despite her circumstances, Ruth’s spirit remained unshaken. She began volunteering at the day resource center for the homeless, offering help to others even while seeking help herself. That decision proved to be life-changing.
“Union Gospel Mission turned my volunteering into a full-time job. I started receiving a paycheck,” she said. “With that paycheck, I could move from a dormitory to a more private shared space, and I was able to pay for my room and board. The next step was housing.”
That’s when Volunteers of America Texas entered her story.
In February 2016, Ruth moved into Park Meadows, a VOA Texas affordable housing community. It was more than a roof over her head — it was a place where she could heal, grow and give back.
“It was at Park Meadows that I realized I could be a ‘Secret Santa.’ I enjoyed crafting so much,” she said. “A case manager once reminded me that birthdays are a gift. Many of the residents missed their children and grandchildren. Some never had visitors. I thought I could remind them that God sees them, God cares, and He is watching over them.”
Ruth began creating birthday crosses adorned with scriptures and quietly hanging them on residents’ doors. Her small acts of kindness rippled across the community.
“Volunteers of America, you are reaping an orchard,” she said. “One may feel unseen and wonder, ‘Are we effective?’ My grateful heart says yes. I am feeling secure, and I have a roof over my head.”
Today, Ruth’s life is filled with purpose and peace. She remains in stable housing and continues to support those around her, guided by her faith and her gratitude.
“I know the impact I can make on someone else’s life,” she said. “Letting them know God sees them, God cares and He is watching over them.”
As Volunteers of America Texas continues its mission to provide safe, stable and affordable housing, Ruth’s story serves as a reminder of what’s possible when compassion meets opportunity.
Volunteers of America Texas is a ministry of service that empowers individuals and families to overcome obstacles to reach their full potential and thrive. The ministry of service strengthens communities through an array of services including substance abuse treatment and prevention, affordable housing, community re-entry, employment training and disabilities services. With locations in more than 30 urban and rural communities, Volunteers of America Texas has been helping those who need the most help for more than 100 years. For information, visit www.voatx.org.