I just wanted to fill in some thoughts on our visit to 18th Street Housing last wednesday night. Along with Sig and Tayrn, Graham and I visited the house at 16th and sutherland that is the home of 5 women with mental disabilities. First off...I was totally shocked by how lovely this home was, beautiful place-really had a homey feeling. Secondly, Felix (the man who 'manages' 75 people in an assortment of single apartment living and group home settings) was such a genuine, humble man-he had such a soft heart, beautiful! After spending some time talking with Felix two main things stood out to me. 1.) Because the governement is involved, the group is not allowed to 'share' the gospel; if prompted by the client. 2.) The way that the clients can be most functionally helped is by providing viable work options. So...my thoughts. If we could provide a place where people could feel 'needed' and valuable in a work setting. One that we ran so that we could hold bible studies, have bibles around (they can't leave a bible out) and just show the clients (who would be staff) that they are valued and loved by their Creator. We could then have the opportunity to show customers and anyone involved who our Lord is. Maybe it's just my background but I can see 'More than a bean' a cafe that we as a group ran...we've got builders, architects, engineers, bakers, baristas. But maybe I just ramble. Either way, it was a great eye opening experience to what is going on in an unsuspecting house.

Niki