Arloa Sutter

"Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen... to provide the poor wanderer with shelter?"- Isaiah 58:6-7

At the end of June, we learned that due to federal funding cuts, the city funding for Breakthrough's men's overnight program will be eliminated starting this month. This represents a loss of $50,000. This has an immediate and direct impact on our ability to continue serving homeless men!

This distressing news comes at a time when there is incredible demand for services for homeless men. Our overnight program, the Dwelling Place, has capacity for 30 beds and is filled to capacity every night with a waiting list.

We do not want to close. We are asking you, our friends and donors, to help us fund the Dwelling Place so we can provide beds for 30 men every night of the year.

A long-time supporter has generously offered a $25,000 matching gift challenge, which can help us replenish the $50,000 in funding that was cut. Therefore, every dollar you donate will essentially be worth two. Don't miss this opportunity to double your gift!

Click here to give.

Special thanks to the Jr. High group from Harvest Bible Chapel in Crystal Lake, led by Director of Student Ministries, Bob Lourdel. The group volunteered almost 30 hours and donated all the supplies to perform several service projects in the back courtyard at Breakthrough's Joshua Center.

They painted five murals of famous African American leaders on the courtyard wall, built and painted a white picket fence around the playground, cleaned and painted a water resistant sealer on the wooden deck, and planted flowers.

Can your group fund and volunteer for a special project? Contact Volunteer Coordinator, Scott Ruth, at 773.989.4382 x271 or sruth@breakthroughministries.com.

Antonina is learning English and hopes to gain US citizenship.

"I am hopeful to get my citizenship and be reunited with my family here, says Antonina. "I am thankful for the help I've been given."

At first glance, Antonina may not seem like a "typical" homeless guest. After a fallout with her family, she worked in someone's home as a live-in caretaker. Through unfortunate circumstances, Antonina was eventually forced out onto the street. Elderly and unable to speak English, she struggled to find enough work to provide for her basic needs. Finally, Antonina found help through the Polish American Association, and they referred her to Breakthrough in December.

Antonina decided to stay in America in hope that the relationship with her family here will be restored. Support and care received at Breakthrough has given Antonina the stability needed to begin learning English and start the process of gaining her US citizenship. Once her status is more secure, she'll be available for more public assistance. Right now, most of what she makes doing part-time home care goes to cover the costs of her medication or for that of her son in Poland, who is dying of cancer.

"She is very independent and is usually able to find work two or three days a week," says Outreach Coordinator, Brenda Williams. "I think her faith helps her keep a more positive outlook. We pray together about her situation."

To find out more about the Women's Services Program, click here.

Special thanks to Peter Prokopowicz of the Polish American Association for help with translation.

Teresa attends Joshua Baptist Church and lives in Chicago's Austin neighborhood.

How long have you worked at Breakthrough?
Six years.

How have things changed since you first started here?
We link up with several outside agencies, which gives the ladies more resources. These agencies can provide some services that we do not. Instead, we can focus on what we do best...ministering to the women and providing counseling and support.

What is the most difficult part of your job?
It's hard to see women get off drugs and then relapse after leaving our program.

How has your life been affected by the ladies who stay at Joshua?
A lot of the ladies here try so hard to overcome their addictions. Some of them just can't seem to kick the habit, but I know they really want to. I feel close to their struggle. My heart really breaks for them.

This year's event features:
Dr. Ray Bakke, Author & Urban Ministry Consultant
Arloa Sutter, Breakthrough Executive Director
The Breakthrough Youth Choir

For more information or to inquire about being a Table Host, contact Development Director, Nancy Hall at 773.989.4382 x290 or nhall@breakthroughministries.com.