Meeting the Needs of Homeless Single Mothers and their Children: What is
the Role of Churches?

In 2 Kings 4:1 - 7, a widow with two sons comes to the people of God for help.
Her husband has died and his creditors are threatening the very survival of
her family. Elisha tells her to take stock of what she has and go to her
neighbors for some extra resources. Then he counsels her to act in faith.

What is the role of churches today in responding to the needs of the widow,
the fatherless, the poor, the homeless or the stranger? Looking at the 2 Kings
story gives us a model. Elisha offers guidance and the hope that God can
provide a miracle. Neighbors respond to the family's need with generosity
and compassion. With the emotional and physical support of God's people,
the single mother has the faith and confidence to begin filling jars with oil to
sell. God blesses her and she is able to pay her debtors and support her
family.

Bridge of Hope engages churches in ending and preventing homelessness
for single mothers and their children. Our model is a three-way partnership
between one trained, church-based mentoring group, one homeless or
at-risk woman and her children, and professional staff. Our goal is to
exemplify Christ's love by equipping mothers for financial self-sufficiency and
training mentors in a ministry of friendship.