Maria Grimes - April 2024

I think US Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy, is right. In his 2023 report, Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation, he wrote, “Loneliness and isolation represent profound threats to our health and well-being.” 

The report connects the lack of healthy relationships to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death. Implied in Dr. Murthy’s encouragement to “Answer that phone call from a friend. Make time to share a meal. Perform an act of service,” is that the federal government cannot provide a solution to the increasing loneliness among Americans today. 

It really takes guys like Tim, a college student who was willing to be a good neighbor to a stranger in need of help. Maria was that stranger, a woman whose relationship life had crumbled after her husband’s alcoholism ended a 30-year marriage. She had not worked outside the home and found herself working odd jobs to make ends meet, and then in need of help moving into an apartment. Maria was referred to Watered Gardens’ Neighbor Connect program where one of our team members connected her to Tim—a volunteer with a willing heart. Last month, Tim spent a full day making six trips to help Maria get moved. 

Maria told us: 

“I just feel like God has sent me an angel. When I most needed something, someone was there. God provided for me in that way.”

She offered him a little money. His response? 

“How about you just invite me and my girlfriend over for dinner when you’re settled in.” 

Charity bears the greatest fruit when it goes beyond a quick handoff to birthing friendships, instead. I hope you’re blessed to know that your support is advancing a ministry that is building a stronger community, addressing difficult societal issues, in very practical ways. I’m grateful for your support.