Hey Bloggers!
As you may know, I just graduated! Huzzah! I am very excited that God has blessed me by enabling me to graduate with Honors from OU in just three years with a Bachelor’s degree in Russian and a minor in History in addition to my Associate’s degree in Substance Abuse Counseling from OSUOKC. At this momentous time in my life, an amazing opportunity has come up that I really feel passionately about: to serve through a charity in Wales caring for young pregnant women and new mothers!
How did all this happen? After I went to Wales last summer on our church’s mission trip, I felt I might be led back there. Then this new opportunity threw itself at me. There is a charity in Cardiff, Wales called “Firstfruits” which provides a safe environment for two to three young pregnant women or new mothers and their babies. Two “House Mums” minister to the women and one of them, Jamie Howell, is leaving in June and was looking for a replacement. I really have a heart to care for women who are trying to rise above difficult backgrounds or addiction issues. This charity really seems like a perfect fit and I cannot wait to get over there and start helping! I was just offered the position a couple of weeks ago, but I am expected to report for duty in early June. Now that I have graduated, all of my attention is directed towards this endeavor.
How can you help? “Firstfruits” charity is only about a year old and does not yet have the financial support to pay a salary for its House Mums. The good news is that they will pay for my accommodation and some food expenses for my one year of service. I will only be responsible for finding support to cover living expenses which are estimated to be about $750 per month (not including airfare).
I am so grateful for the outpouring of support and encouragement from friends and family since I have told them about this new endeavor. It really seems that God is in this thing. Please consider joining with others as they support this charity. Even a few dollars a month could make all the difference. More important, though, is your prayer support. Once I get over there I will update my blog regularly so you will be able to see how best you can pray for this great work.
You can send donations to me directly through the Paypal account here on my blog (look left) or send tax deductible donations by using the form below and sending it with any financial contribution or commitment. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me! My email is DeahJo@gmail.com . Thank you all so much for your thoughts and prayers!
Sincerely,
Deah Jordan Rice
Tax deductible donation for: Going Public (Firstfruits), Wales, Deah Jordan Rice
I would like to make a:
One time contribution of _____
Monthly contribution of __________
If possible, please indicate day it will be given (ie-1st, 15th) _____
Make checks payable to: Henderson Hills
Memo: Wales, Deah Rice
Send to: Henderson Hills, Attn: Missions
1200 E I-35 Frontage Rd.
Edmond, OK 73034
A little more about Firstfruits
Background
Firstfruits was birthed after Rachel Cooper recognized through her involvement at crisis pregnancy centers that housing, independent living, education, and employment were common needs that came with unexpected pregnancies. Rachel’s church, Glenwood Faith Community, adopted Firstfruits as one of their community projects. In April 2008, a house owned by a church member became available and was leased to Firstfruits at a low rate. In the following months, volunteers furnished the home. It can accommodate up to three women at a time, with space for one baby per mother.
Mission Statement
“And I will provide a place for my people…and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed…” 2 Samuel 7:10
Aim
“To improve the lives of vulnerable, pregnant women and new mothers, helping them to develop their physical, mental, social and spiritual capacities.”
Objectives
1. To provide a safe and secure living environment
2. To offer emotional support through trained counselors
3. To offer practical support in the development of life-skills, particularly those most relevant for new mothers.
4. To provide accurate and timely information on education and employment opportunities.
Website:
http://www.first-fruits.co.uk/
