
Finding Hope and Transformation at a Community Resource Center 
Cathy’s journey with Rio Vista Center, an ABCS community resource center, highlights how faith, community and purpose can lead to life-changing experiences. For nearly 19 years, she has been connected to the center, where she found support, hope and a sense of belonging.
Cathy first came to the center in search of food boxes for her family. As a mother raising eight children—and at one point 15 kids under her roof—she needed help. What she found went far beyond material assistance. She recalls how a kind woman would always pray for her. When that person wasn’t available, others stepped in to offer the same care.
Eventually, Cathy felt moved to give back. She began volunteering, even making promises to God that if He blessed her, she would dedicate herself to service and attend church regularly. She stayed true to that promise, and her involvement has been unwavering ever since.
Providing Hope and Care to Others
Through the years, the Rio Vista Center has become a safe haven for Cathy’s family. Her children grew up connected to the center and its community. For them, it became an alternative to the negative influences they might have encountered on the streets. Cathy reflects on how this place gave her kids a sense of belonging and purpose, which she deeply values.
The Rio Vista Center works to build relationships while meeting the physical and spiritual needs of each person who visits the center. Cathy’s journey wasn’t without its struggles. She had been to several rehabilitation centers but found lasting change only after incorporating faith into her life. The Bible-based approach of programs she accessed through the center helped her get clean and remain sober for the past 19 years.
“People ask me why I keep coming,” Cathy says. “I can’t stop. The streets and drugs are everywhere, but this place gives people hope and helps them get better.”
For Cathy, every day is an opportunity to make a difference. Before leaving her house each morning, she prays for God to use her to impact someone else’s life. That dedication fuels her continued service, which she credits with transforming her life in countless ways.
Her story is a reminder that each ABCS community resource center offers more than support—they provide a foundation for hope, healing and a brighter future while supporting local communities through food, clothing and other resources.
How You Can Help
If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, our ABCS Community Resource Centers
are here to help. We offer food, clothing and other essential resources while sharing hope and care with everyone we serve. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support!
You can also make a difference by volunteering, just like Cathy does. Whether you have a few hours a week or can commit to more, your time and talents can change lives in your community.
We could not do the work we do without the support of our donors. If you would like to make a donation that helps families in need click here.
Together, we can reach out to those who are lost and show God’s love to our neighbors.
Watch more of Cathy’s story in the video below!