I remember when we were planning to establish the first Lazarus House for people coming out of homelessness and addiction. That was 5 years ago. I was employed at the Pro Publico Foundation. I know the reasons why we wanted to establish this House. I didn't know if it would work out. I didn't know what to expect. I only knew that it was necessary to save many lives.
I started by writing the House rules. I had to know how I wanted it to function. Then came the search for a suitable building. It wasn't easy. Finding the right infrastructure, and also a owner who would agree to help people in crisis, homeless, and addicted. The day I found the building for the first House of Saint Lazarus was the last day I had set for searching. We had to furnish this House. So, the next stage was collecting various kinds of furniture, equipment, and furnishings, so that it would be a house created by people for people. Created from love for love. In the meantime, the first two residents moved in. We had 9 spots at that time.
Another 3 years had to pass before we opened the second St. Lazarus House. In the meantime, Iza, Andrzej, Małgosia, and Michał joined me. We opened our own Foundation. Coincidentally, the neighbors from next door to House #1 were moving out. We asked if they wanted to rent it. But could we maintain two Houses on donations? Could we support our charges with donations? Could we employ two staff members on donations? Was it possible? Well, yes, there were still contributions from residents who participated in the upkeep costs of the House. However, it was quite risky. Did I have doubts? No. I had no doubt that a second House of St. Lazarus was needed. However, I had doubts about whether we could keep it. It was essentially 18 places. That's a lot. The costs were rising. I was scared, but I knew it was necessary to save the lives of those who come to us.
After two more years, people were coming into our Homes through doors and windows. We had no more room. We had no funds to open a third Home. This time, it was too risky. But one phone call, a second, a third... another... Every time the answer is the same: we don't have any more spots. This reminded me of the journey of a certain Lady Mary to the city of Bethlehem. With Joseph and her unborn child, they were looking for a place for the birth of the Son. And they heard everywhere: we have no more room! God knew what He was doing by including this event in the Bible: We don't have any more seats. It resonated in my ears for a while. This is how God found a way to convince me to open the third House of Saint Lazarus, while simultaneously giving me what I needed to do so.
Was I afraid that I wouldn't be able to financially support three houses and countless wards whose lives we could save?
Yes. I was afraid until today.
For the stability of assistance to homeless people in crisis, continuous, comprehensive support is needed, and this will be possible through regular donations. But that's the end!
No more fears! Why?
I met with friends (greetings to Maria and Krzysztof, and Agata and Rafał), who reminded me of the great power of Christ. They reminded me of whom God chose to be among the apostles to replace Judas: it was Matthias. They reminded me that God can do anything, and I can do nothing on my own! And that's why it's the end!
It's the end! Because God is also giving me you!
Thanks! To whoever is reading this: if you've made it to the end, ask yourself if it's worth it.
Is it worth saving someone's life?
PKO BP Account Number 45 1020 4027 0000 1902 1708 8736,
Title of payment: donation for statutory purposes
This is the end of the post.
Maciej Białka
President of the Do Good Spreads Foundation
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