Empowering Change

At St. Johannes Lutheran Church, we are deeply committed to making a tangible difference in our community. Through our partnerships with The Navigation Center and Next Steps of Charleston, we have been able to extend a helping hand to individuals facing significant challenges. Today, we want to share a few stories of hope and resilience that highlight the positive impact of our combined efforts.

Abraham's Journey to Stability

Abraham, a dedicated Army veteran with two disabilities, came to The Navigation Center feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of having his electricity cut off due to a $1200 overdue bill. With his limited resources and a pressing need for support, Abraham sought help from The Navigation Center, which is working diligently on his disability claims. 

Thanks to the compassionate assistance from The Navigation Center, as well as a crucial contribution from the Oswald Fund, we were able to make a partial payment toward his bill. The relief of avoiding an electricity shut-off was evident on Abraham’s face when he learned what we had accomplished together. His smile said it all—sometimes, a little help can go a long way in restoring hope and stability.

Christopher's Path to a New Beginning

Christopher faced a more complex situation. His apartment, where he paid $450 in rent, was destroyed in a fire. While his landlord offered him a new lease, the rent was unexpectedly raised to $1300. Unfortunately, Christopher signed the lease without fully understanding the terms, leading to an eviction order and mounting stress.

With guidance from Next Steps and financial support from the Oswald Fund, we were able to negotiate with the landlord and secure an extension for Christopher. This extension will give him the time he needs to resolve his back rent and secure a more affordable apartment. Christopher left our office with renewed hope and a plan in place to overcome his current difficulties.

Miss O.'s Fresh Start

Miss O., a mother of three—including a newborn—was struggling to catch up on $350 in rent while transitioning back to work at Walmart. Her situation was further complicated by the need for better financial planning and support.

With some counseling from Next Steps and additional assistance from St. Johannes Lutheran, we were able to provide partial payment to her landlord. Her mother’s support will help cover the remaining amount, and Miss O. is now on track to manage her rent effectively as her income stabilizes. Her journey illustrates how a combination of financial aid and practical advice can empower individuals to build a better future for themselves and their families.

Our Shared Mission

These stories are a testament to the power of community and collaboration. At St. Johannes Lutheran Church, we are proud to work alongside The Navigation Center and Next Steps of Charleston to support those in need. Each success story reinforces our commitment to helping our neighbors navigate challenging times and emerge stronger.

If you’re interested in learning more about our initiatives or how you can get involved, we invite you to reach out to us. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful impact and bring hope to those who need it most.

Thank you for your support and dedication to our mission. Let’s continue to work hand in hand to create positive change in our community.