The Strengthening Mothers Program, supported by Saint Andrew’s United Methodist Church (SAUMC), provides monthly scholarships and sponsorships to Shining Light Homes clients. These sponsorships are earned through participation in church worship and Bible study and are paid directly to the mothers. Funds may be used to meet essential needs such as rent, groceries, and other household expenses. Through this program, SAUMC offers both practical financial support and opportunities for spiritual growth, helping mothers build stability and hope for their families.

Our amazing moms rolled up their sleeves and went to work—washing cars, greeting guests, and sharing smiles—all to help raise funds for SLH. The day was filled with laughter, sunshine, and a sense of community that made every soapy splash worth it.

Adding to the excitement, we had a special visit from Captain America himself, courtesy of the East Coast Alliance of CoSlayers. His appearance delighted kids and adults alike, and he was a wonderful supporter of our cause.

And, of course, it wouldn’t be an SLH Car Wash without a sweet treat from Uncle Rick’s Frozen Custard! Every supporter who came through for a car wash and made a donation enjoyed a delicious frozen custard as our way of saying thank you.

Events like this not only raise money for our mission—they also give our moms the opportunity to pour into the community that has poured into them. We’re so proud of their hard work and grateful for every volunteer, donor, and supporter who made the day a success.

Together, we’re proving that when people come together for a cause, the results are nothing short of amazing.

Sometimes God moves in ways that take our breath away. Recently, two of our Shining Light Homes moms experienced just that kind of blessing—each receiving the gift of a free car. Kimberly was given a beautiful 2011 Honda Odyssey, and Amirah received a spotless 2008 Toyota Sienna. For both women, these vehicles represent far more than transportation—they are keys to independence, stability, and a brighter future for their families.

It all began with an unexpected email from Brian and Mariel McClung of AMC911 Crawl Space and Foundation Repair. Brian shared that God had told him he needed to do more. Without hesitation, I told him we had moms who were desperately in need of reliable transportation. Without blinking an eye, Brian and Mariel agreed to help.

We decided to hold a small contest, inviting moms in our program to share why they needed a car. Several responses came in, but three truly stood out. I sent those heartfelt letters to AMC911, expecting they would choose one recipient. But after reading the stories, Brian and Mariel called me with an amazing update—they couldn’t choose just one. God had placed it on their hearts to buy two cars instead of one.

When the day came to hand over the keys, the joy and gratitude on Kimberly’s and Amirah’s faces said it all. These cars will allow them to get to work, take their children to school and appointments, and manage daily life with less stress and more hope.

We are deeply thankful to Brian and Mariel McClung for their generosity, obedience to God’s prompting, and their heart for our moms. This act of kindness will have a ripple effect in the lives of Kimberly, Amirah, and their children for years to come.

At Shining Light Homes, we believe in creating opportunities for single mothers to thrive—and moments like this remind us that God’s provision often comes through the willing hands of His people.

With 18 years of service as a state employee, Demarea has consistently demonstrated stability and dedication. While she has always had a strong drive to succeed and set a positive example for her daughters, it was her desire to connect with a community of single mothers that first led her to Shining Light Homes.

“I’ve always had the drive and strong will to be successful and to set positive examples for my girls,” she shares. “I wanted to be a part of a motherhood community.”

During her time with us, Demarea found herself pregnant with her second child. That’s when she courageously reached out for additional support—and we were honored to walk with her through that season.

Through our programs, Demarea:

• Completed a credit repair class, improving her credit score by 35 points
• Launched her own jewelry business through Paparazzi
• Became certified as a Mixxed Fit instructor after pursuing fitness training
• Volunteered her time generously to support SLH events and initiatives
• Grew personally and professionally, embracing accountability and self-care

“Shining Light Homes has helped me grow, hold myself accountable, and not be afraid to ask for assistance,” she says. “I’m so grateful to Shining Light Homes and honored to be a part of the program.”

Demarea’s story is a powerful reminder that stability doesn’t mean the journey is over—sometimes, it’s just the beginning of a new chapter filled with possibility, purpose, and bold steps forward.

We are so proud of Demarea and the beautiful example she sets for her daughters and other women in our community. She truly is a shining light.

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