Donor gifts help young woman start fresh at Mosaic
I often refer to donors as partners in Mosaic’s mission to love and serve others. Here’s a story that highlights that partnership. It’s clear how donor gifts and Mosaic staff worked together to help a young woman with the things she needed—both a place to belong and the items that could help her start anew. I hope you find it inspiring.
No stable home and no one to help, until Mosaic
Natasha was 22 years old when she came to Mosaic in the summer of 2024. She had not had a stable home for years, moving from place to place with her mother—all of them temporary. The last one was a small motel room.
She had no other relatives who could take her in. So when it was determined that staying with her mother was no longer safe, Natasha spent some time in a hospital while social services looked for somewhere for her to go.
Then a space opened at Mosaic. Finally, there was a place she could call home, because it would not be another temporary stop.
The impact of donor gifts
Living on the move as she had for years, Natasha had almost nothing. Everything she had was in a single, small bag. That’s where donors had a dramatic impact. Here’s what the local area director shared with me:
“Through the thoughtful use of donor funds, Mosaic was able to ensure all her fundamental needs were met—from a new, comfortable wardrobe and cozy bedding to items that brought her pleasure, like new toys and stuffed animals.”
Because of donor gifts, Natasha gained more than just a place to lay her head. She found a place to belong. She was able to have things that turn a place into a home, personal things that were her own and help bring a sense of dignity and self.
Learning to trust
It was slow-going for our staff at first. Natasha spoke only rarely and seemed withdrawn. I imagine the routine moves of her earlier life led her to wonder how long this would last, which could make trusting others more difficult. But consistent care in a stable environment began to help her feel more comfortable.
Slowly she began doing more things for herself, then began attending day services where she found she enjoys arts and crafts. She also began speaking short, two- and three-word sentences. Most recently I learned that donor gifts helped Natasha get the dental care she needed after not seeing a dentist for three years.
The local area director said, “The withdrawn adult who arrived with one bag of belongings has blossomed into a smiling, happy, and beautiful young lady.”
That’s the difference belonging can make for people. It feels secure and stable, it brings comfort and calm. It helps us take the risk to try new things and learn.
You can help others like Natasha
There are more people, like Natasha, waiting for a place to belong. Mosaic donors helped make this all happen. Please consider making a gift today because there will always be people who, like Natasha, come to Mosaic when they have nothing and nowhere else to go. You will feel joy in knowing how you make a difference in people’s lives.
Here’s a video featuring Natasha and those who support her.