Howard was a regular attendee at Flood for several months before reaching out with an additional need to David and Kim Albers in October 2009.  Howard came to Bakersfield a couple of years ago after he was improsoned for two years in Mexico.  Howard says, "All I had was a cardboard box and nothing else".  Howard was able to obtain a job and sustain housing at the Tegeler Motel downtown. In October, Howard, still dealing with the emotional trauma from his past, found himself jobless and facing the reality of homelessness.  Flood was able to assist him with the unemployment process, provide a stable mailing address and telephone number, as well as provide him meaningful volunteer opportunities to keep up his self-esteem.   "It just blew me away that there were people that would help me like that!" states Howard.  November and December proved to be extremeley challenging months for Howard as he did not know where he was going to live despite his best efforts.  I can remember the panic in his face as he began to plan for what seeemed inevitable.  Where would he store his "life" if he was to become homeless?  The very day that Howard was prepared to leave his home of two years and go to the Bakersfield Rescue Mission, the reversal letter came on his unemployment benefits.  God came through and provided the financial resources for him to stay at the Tegeler.  The change in Howard's life is inspiring; you can see the peace he feels in his heart and the joy he shares with others.  Howard continues his weekly Bible studies, attends Celebrate Recovery and volunteers at his church, New Beginnings, the Rescue Mission and of course at Flood!  Howard is busy and faithful.  What a privilege to be used by God in Howard's life. ~ Lisa Shelley, Outreach Coordinator   

 

Flood has hosted three community clean- up projects and has one more coming on March 27 to earn Disney tickets as part of the Give A Day Get a Disney Day program.  In addition, we have had many volunteers provide clerical support and participate in the Flood Graffiti Wash program.  This has been a very exciting time as we not only saw the fruit of the labor but many who came to volunteer had not heard of Flood's ministry or had any exposure to homelessness. Participating in the program increased awareness of the need for mid-week volunteers.  Flood is in full swing six days a week.   Disney participants were moved and inspired by the guest volunteers' stories and their commitment to giving back to the organization and the community.  Our originally scheduled day to visit Disneyland as a group will not be possible.  If you are interested in Flooding Disneyland with Hope and would be willing to help transport Flood guests so that they can use their earned vouchers, please contact Kim with a proposed date in April or May.