"BES has given me a chance for a new beginning, a new life and a new purpose. It has given me the opportunity to be of service in many ways, as a friend, as a counselor, and as a confidante...".
Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that I would be homeless! I say that because I was married for 22 years, had a nice home, car and job. But for 18 of those years I lived as a victim of domestic violence. I stayed because my children's well being meant more to me than my own happiness. When my chance to leave came up, knowing that my children would be safe, I left! BES has been a refuge and safe haven for me. It has brought me peace of mind. At BES, it has helped me to "be still and know the Lord" as I did before. I know he (God) has a purpose for me, that he still cares for me, and loves me. There are no words to express the gratitude I have for BES, the Board, the staff, and everyone else who helps make this ministry possible. Homelessness is a tragedy and all that goes with it; the physical and mental illnesses, heartaches, fears, and worries. It is on my heart to serve BES and its guests because of how much I have been blessed recovering here.
Deborah Ballard
I had never been in a Shelter before and did not know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised. The Burlington Emergency Shelter does far more than provide shelter from the elements and nourishment for those who find themselves homeless. We are all human beings in great need, which goes beyond protection from the weather and provision of food. In one way or another we are in many ways broken, working our way back to respectability and a normal life. Now that I have left the Burlington Emergency Shelter to start my new life, I will not think of myself as a former guest, but rather a graduate of an institution that gave me strength and a revitalized sense of worth, not to mention the excessive kindness I was shown. God bless the Burlington Emergency Shelter. It is one of his finest creations.
Bill Austin
Janie Sherrill