From Despair to Hope
At Ruth Harbor, some of the most powerful stories are the ones we can never fully share. Out of love and respect for privacy, many of the “But God” moments—those flashes of transformation and divine intervention—stay hidden from view.
But they shape us deeply. They remind us why we do what we do.
We often meet young women at the edge of desperation—pregnant, alone, and unsure what a better future might even look like. A world filled with safety, support, and hope feels as unfamiliar to them as prison or the streets might feel to a suburban mom.
And still, they come.
And when they walk through our doors, we begin the sacred work of believing in them—before they can believe in themselves.
A Story We’re Still Praying Over
Not long ago, one such young mom arrived at Ruth Harbor directly from prison. She was pregnant and caring for her 18-month-old child. Her story was heavy. Her eyes told of deep pain.
And yet, there was a spark.
For a time, she made progress. There were hopeful days and moments of breakthrough. But then came a turning point. One day, she fled—she left Ruth Harbor and vanished from legal oversight.
We grieved. We still do.
But even in our grief, we take comfort in a truth that never changes: She cannot outrun the love of God. He knows her. He sees her. He has not let her go.
Hope Doesn’t Walk Away
There are days when hope blooms—when a young woman begins to dream, heal, and rebuild. And then there are days when those dreams seem to slip away. On those days, we remember the sobering truth: We can’t want it more than she does.
Even then, we do not lose heart.
We return to the One who called us. The God who never gives up. The God who knew each of these women before they were born. The God who promises to bring beauty from ashes.
His faithfulness is our anchor. His love is our strength.
Because at Ruth Harbor, hope doesn’t give up. Love doesn’t walk away.
Will You Stand With Us?
Your support makes this work possible. Whether a young mom flourishes or falters, your prayers, your gifts, and your presence ensure Ruth Harbor remains a place of refuge and restoration.
You can be the turning point for the next woman in crisis. Your gift helps provide a safe place, caring staff, and a pathway of healing. Give a gift today
Pray for the mom who fled—that she would know she is not forgotten.
Share this story with someone who needs to believe that hope still exists.
Thank you for believing with us—even when it’s hard.
Watch For Our Spring Mailing
Our annual Spring Mailing is on its way to your mailboxes! Our staff has been hard at work preparing to share with you how God has been working over the last several months, and we can’t wait for you to read it! The theme of this mailing is “From Crisis to Hope: A Spring of New Beginnings.”
When you receive it, please take a few moments to read the newsletter and celebrate with us the stories of God’s work through Ruth Harbor. And remember, your giving enables us to do the physical work of the ministry, and your prayers strengthen us to do the spiritual work of the ministry. We are so grateful for your faithful partnership!
Spring Needs
Please consider how you might help supply some needed Wish List items:
Natural multi-purpose cleaner
Dish soap
Toilet paper
Paper towels
Plastic silverware
Free & clear laundry detergent
13-gallon trash bags
Diapers (size 4 & 5)
Save the Date!
Our 2025 Vision Dinner (formerly known as the Ruth Harbor Fundraising Banquet) will be held at 6pm on November 4, 2025 at the Airport Holiday Inn.
Pastor Brian Brown of Hope+Elim Church will be this year’s speaker. (We are blessed to office now out of Hope+Elim for nearly a year, and the staff and congregation are amazing to work with.) We look forward to seeing everyone at this year’s Vision Dinner!