Delano's mom died when he was just 11. After living with his stepfather and then some relatives for a time, young Delano found himself on the street. He was just one of the over 5000 Michigan youths that sleep on the street on any given night. Yes 5000 in Michigan a night! For Delano now; however, thanks to Covenant House Michigan, not only is he off the streets-- but he assists Stephanie Taylor (they're pictured together below) in the Street Outreach Program to help get other kids get to a safe place and where they can get all the tools they need for a positive and productive future.
A visit to Covenant House in Detroit for my husband and I was emotional and inspiring. It's not hard to miss the compassion on the part of the staff and the inpiration all around, including scripture verses on the wall. We met Anthony (center in the blue t-shrit), who after being a homeless youth himself, is now a vibrant and approachable young man who volunteers his time along with the other dedicated staff. We heard many stories of youth rescued from hopelessness: some escaping abuse or neglect, some abandoned, some aged out of the foster care system. But (as is Covenant House's Mission), all of God's children deserve unconditional love, respect and hope and they are given it there. Their vivacious Marketing Director, Melissa Golpe showed us around the the campus where the youth is housed, fed, educated and loved. She introduced us to a special group of kids who you see below. Once on the street, with Covenant House's assistance, they are all working hard to make their dreams come true.
Left to Right: Melissa--Covenant's marketing maven, Jonathan-- a WC3 Student and percussionist who wants to be a music teacher, Robyn-- who works at AMC Theatres now and is a future Interior Designer, Danielle- a business student who is currently getting a patent on a new kind of home key pad that (like your car key fob) will get you into your house (watch out Bill Gates!) and Lyiondra--a Nutrition major at Wayne State who is going to be a dermatologist. Not long ago, these kids were homeless. Now, thanks to Covenant House, their lives have turned around and they are ready to change the world!
I hope you can support Covenant House and attend an incredible, once in a lifetime benefit May 25 at the Gem and Century Theatres. "A Night of Broadway Stars" features some of Broadway's biggest stars recreating their roles onstage...and a special performance by the Covenant House Youth! Check out this video for a glimpse of the evening Night of Broadway Stars Promo Video
And if you know someone who is in need of help, there is an easy to remember toll-free crisis line at 800-999-9999 (the Covenant House Nine Line).
Please support Covenant House, it could be your neighbor, friend or your child on the street someday...and (as their flyer says) anything you can do helps, so: donate, volunteer, advocate or pray!
