Testimonials of former residents:

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​My time with Mr and Mrs. Harris at A Hand Up was short but it was such a blessing. From the minute I met with Mrs. Joanna, I'm not sure what she saw in me, from that moment on the raining on good news never stopped. I would communicate with her my progress, she constantly encouraged me and cheered me on. Mr. Levi fed us healthy meals everynight and they made us comfortable. Life throws hurdles at you from time to time but A Hand Up was just that to me. I take it as no coincidence that my little family and I landed in their hands. I'm forever grateful and appreciative and look forward to lending my hand in their mission.

HG

June 4, 2025

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My name is Gayon Ellison, a mother to three  wonderful kids, ages 13, 10 and 10 months old. First, I want to thank you for giving me this opportunity to share little about my life’s journey being apart of A Hand Up. It has both humbled and empowered me because it wasn't long ago that I didn’t think I’d ever have the strength to speak about my experience—let alone sharing it with you all. I’m here today not just as a survivor from a very traumatic situation but as someone who has been deeply, profoundly transformed by the help of “A Hand Up” that stood beside me when I felt most alone. There was a time in my life, one of my biggest fear became my reality. My children and I were thrown out of an environment I thought was to be a home for us. I remember waking up each morning wondering if today would be worse than the last, and if there was ever going to be a way out. We’ve been in two other shelters then after which, we were introduced to A Hand Up. I still remember the first time I walked through their doors. I was scared, unsure, and carrying the weight of shame that didn’t even belong to me. But they welcomed (Mr and Mrs Joann & Levi Harris) my children and I—not just with an open arms, but with open hearts. No judgment. Just support. Just safety. This foundation gave me more than shelter—they gave me back my confidence and a voice. Through counseling, legal advocacy  and the unwavering kindness from them, I started to rebuild. Piece by piece. Day by day. I learned to trust again. I learned that what happened to me wasn’t my fault. I learned that healing is possible. Mrs Harris, each day would always tell me to take one good out my day and let it out numbered the many bad I’m facing.
Not going to lie, at times I never believe things would ever get better but with constant reminders from Mrs Harris, I started to look on the brighter side of things. Food, toiletries and most importantly Prayers were always apart of our daily lives there. Being at A Hand Up brought back peace and serenity in my life. We had movie nights, games and outings, A Hand Up wasn’t just a shelter, ITS HOME for me. Because of their help, I’m now in my own apartments . I have goals and dreams that I’m currently pursuing. I have the tools to thrive, not just survive. I’m very grateful for the help I’ve received from A Hand Up even after leaving there and to be here today sharing my story, one I felt was too painful to even whisper. A Hand Up, thank you!!! they don’t just save lives, they restore them. You restored mine. Our lives And to anyone out there who’s struggling, doubtful or knows someone who is—please know there’s always someone out here to give support and a listening ear .There is hope. You are not alone. A Hand Up, made sure I didn’t walk this journey alone—and today, I’m walking forward stronger than I ever thought I could be and for that I’m forever Thankful.
Blessings!!!
Gayon Ellison

May 12, 2025

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​My experience with A Hand Up was top tier. They were there for me when nobody else was. They were very helpful and resourceful. They helped me a lot very kind people. If they can help they will.

DL

February 17, 2025

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I just want to take a few minutes out of my time to say how grateful I am for Mrs. JoAnn and Mr. Levi at A Hand Up. God sent me to them through one of His Angels who connected us. It is so amazing how much they truly care about people.  They opened their doors for me and my grandkids and with their help we got housing and furniture and a family for life.  I was as low as I have ever been. I was broken, down and wanted to give up. But Ms. JoAnn said, “don’t worry, everything is going to be alright.” I just want to say thank you again, so much, for everything that you’ve done for me and my family.
N. Hendrix
December 19, 2024

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How has A Hand Up helped me/transformed me?
When I stayed in my apartment, I was living an unhealthy lifestyle and chose the wrong friends to keep company with. I knew I had to make better decisions for me and my son, Khalil. Further on down the line, I lost an especially important relationship with my parents due to disagreements. Slowly, but surely, I started to take my eyes off God and question Him when I did not understand why certain things would take place. In December 2023, I lost my apartment and became homeless with my son after Christmas, and we left after receiving a 30-day notice to vacate. 
I was angry and lost and often cried to God asking, “why me?” After we left the apartment, I stayed with my friend for 2 weeks.  Soon after that, I went to a place called First Stop and sat down with a counselor and told her I needed a place to stay where I could have a nice space to live until public housing called us for an apartment. During the 4 months I stayed at A Hand Up, I have noticed a substantial change in me. I am no longer angry with myself. I have learned how to be at peace with my situation and have gotten closer to God and building a better relationship with Him. I am also in the process of repairing my relationship with my parents.
During what I call a shift in life, A Hand Up has helped me tremendously. Not only has Ms. JoAnn had a good impact on me and my son’s life, but she has also molded me into a God-fearing woman and tomorrow we will be moving into my new apartment. Thanks to God, because without Him, none of this would be possible.

Shawander Jackson

April 28, 2024