January 15, 2007

Why is a Heart Havens Home for the Special Needs population needed in this area? There are hundreds of people with special needs who are searching for housing in the State of Virginia. When age catches up with parents and caretakers, and they are unable to continue the care of their special needs child, housing becomes a critical need. The Heart Haven Project is helping to meet that need throughout the state. There are now 11 Heart Haven Homes in operation. I am the parent of a special needs son. His name is J L and he is 36 years old. We as parents worked diligently to improve whatever situation came before us. Years ago it was elementary school, middle school, and high school. J L graduated from the special program at Handley High School, and he has been employed at the Northwestern Workshop since June of 1991. He works hard and tries to do anything they ask of him. He joined the Kernstown United Methodist Church, and he attends every Sunday. He also serves as a greeter and usher. As a parent, I marvel at the Heart Havens Project, because housing is needed so badly. There is a waiting list of special needs people searching for housing. Never in my dreams did I ever expect a home to be built in the Winchester District by the United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Men. The daily anxiety of “What is going to happen to my child” never leaves the parent of a child with special needs. October 18, 2002 was the date Saratoga House opened in Winchester. It is a date I shall never forget. I had the best night’s sleep in 31 years. This is such a wonderful happening for the Methodist Church assisted by the diligent work of the United Methodist Men. Truly God is working through each and every one of you. I served on the panel for the Heart Haven project in Winchester. I thank you for backing this worthwhile undertaking. Your work will benefit many people and give them wings like eagles so they might soar and fly.

Thank you and God Bless you,

A Parent, Jean