Way Maker 2024 Happenings

As we close out 2024, we are reflecting on how God has continued to bless the Center this year. We are so grateful and give Him all the glory! To every donor, volunteer, and supporter—thank you. We wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

2024 Impact Snapshot

• Classes provided: 1,962

• Clients served: 44

• Diapers distributed: 11,613

• Births celebrated: 16

This year, Way Maker was awarded two grants:

• $400 from Cobb EMC

• $300 from the Due West Methodist Endowment Fund, which allowed us to purchase a much-needed office printer

We were also blessed to receive a $1,000 check from the Vinings Rotary Club, who additionally provided “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” books and supplies for our moms. We are so thankful for their generosity and commitment!

Executive Director Retreat

In October, Executive Director Kerri attended the Life Resources of Georgia retreat at Jekyll Island. This intentional weekend was designed to refresh leaders in ministry. Directors from across Georgia came together to reflect on identity, discuss adversity, and seek restoration. Through teachings from Dr. Chris and Bobbie Bruton, leaders left encouraged that God equips us for the work He calls us to.

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

BRFC Mentor Program

We also participated in the Bartow Family Resource Center’s 11-week mentoring program in Cartersville. The Christ-centered discussions provided powerful tools to strengthen our client counseling and build up our mentoring program.

Community Partnerships

• American Heritage Girls (July): Served by sorting clothing donations and later supported us with diapers, wipes, and baby care items at their lock-in.

• Swahili Women’s Outreach (August): Volunteers bundled diapers and items for our Swahili-speaking moms, ensuring their needs were met for two months at a time.

• Make a Difference Panel (September): A moving discussion with stories from a birth mother, foster mom, adoptive mom, adoption agency, and a mother who experienced abortion—offering deep insight into the many paths of motherhood.

• Marietta First Church of the Nazarene (November): Sponsored a baby bottle campaign raising $936 for the Center!

Stories of Impact

L.H.’s Story

L.H., a mom in our program for nearly two years, faced overwhelming challenges—her car was totaled, her baby was hospitalized, and she lost her job. At her lowest, she reached out to Way Maker. Together we prayed and provided essentials like school clothes, supplies, and rental car assistance. Then, in God’s perfect timing, a generous family from Due West Church donated a car.

Through tears, she whispered: “God really does see me.”

K’s Story

K, L.H.’s partner, came through our program as well. A quiet man with a troubled past, he began to open up during his time with us. He gained employment, embraced fatherhood, and shared: “I see now that if I hadn’t gone through all that I did, I wouldn’t be the person I’m becoming now.” God is at work, transforming lives.

Extending Help Beyond Our Walls

When Hurricane Helene devastated communities, we partnered with a longtime friend who became “God’s Transporter” for the babies. Together we sent SUVs filled with diapers, formula, bottles, blankets, coats, and over 200 clothing items into some of the most remote, hardest-hit areas. Even when asked if this would deplete our own supplies, we trusted God—and He continues to provide!

Christmas Angel Tree

This Christmas, we were able to bless 3 families and 6 children through our Angel Tree program. Thanks to our church partners and donors, families received gifts, Kroger gift cards, and gingerbread houses. Special thanks to:

• Stepping into the Bible Sunday School Class (Due West Methodist)

• Living Hope Church

We are also grateful for the Harrison Hoya Lacrosse Team, West Cobb Austell Hospital, and Living Hope Church for their donations of diapers, wipes, toys, and baby items during the holidays.

Thank you

To every donor, volunteer, and friend: thank you for giving so generously of your time, resources, and prayers. Because of you, women in our community are experiencing God’s love and provision in powerful ways. Your support allows us not only to provide practical needs but also to share hope and encouragement with every mother we serve.

Way Maker is impacting lives—and it’s all because of YOU.