September 18, 2006

Dear Friend of Bridge of Hope BuxMont,

“This will be my first picnic!” explained Melinda, describing her plans to join her mentoring group later that day.  As Melinda sat in my office describing her journey that brought her to Bridge of Hope, the fear and violence from her past seemed so disconnected from the energetic woman who sat in front of me, with her contented baby on her lap and, by her side, her four-year-old daughter with eyes that never stop sparkling.

Melinda begins at the point where she left her home country of Indonesia because of the persecution that was occurring against Chinese Christians.   In order to prevent her daughter from being raped as had happened to so many of her friends and relatives, Melinda’s mother put her on a plane to the United States with instructions to not look back. 

Melinda worked hard to learn English and make a home in the United States.  She met and married a young man.  Six months into their marriage, the person she thought she had married seemed to disappear only to be replaced by a powerful, controlling person.  Her husband took advantage of the fact that he had citizenship while her paperwork was still in process.

After two years, she decided that she needed to leave.  With the help of several agencies along the way, Melinda obtained emergency shelter for herself and her children.  In coming to Bridge of Hope, Melinda hopes to gain the necessary skills to obtain better employment in this country.  (She worked in accounting in her own country.)  Melinda has already found an apartment in Telford, improved her computer skills and purchased a car.  She describes herself as more independent.

Maintaining connections with her Indonesian friends in Philadelphia and building new relationships with her mentoring group from Blooming Glen Mennonite Church have been an important support for Melinda.  She explains that her mentors have quickly become like her own family.  Reflecting on her journey Melinda says, “I am grateful for everything God has done for me.”

Would you consider giving a gift, or making a monthly pledge, at this time to help others like Melinda receive the opportunity to create a better home for themselves and their children?  The Board of Directors of Bridge of Hope BuxMont has pledged to match the gifts received in response to this letter up to $20,000.00. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Cheryl Swartley 

Cheryl Swartley

Executive Director