Kelly
“I’m grateful that my faith is restored at Haywood Street; feels like the Bible’s getting done here.”
Kelly first met Pastor Brian as a patient at Copestone and has been a part of the Haywood Street community ever since. He says his mental illness brought him to Haywood Street; that it’s a place he feels fully accepted.
Kelly mentions that he sees Jesus on campus all the time and so I ask, “What does he look like when you see him?” Kelly responds, “Same as he always does…homeless.”
We give thanks for Kelly’s presence on Holy Ground and for the unique perspectives he has to share with us all.
Jacqueline
“I am grateful for everything provided by the staff at Haywood Street Congregation.”
Jacqueline was born in New Jersey, went to Jersey City State College, and had a career, for a time, in social work.
A series of life events not only landed her in Asheville, but also as woman experiencing homelessness. Jacqueline first heard about Haywood Street in 2012, but did not visit the church or campus until 2019.
Over these past few years, Jacqueline has become such a cherished member of the Haywood Street community. On more than one occasion she has used her limited resources to make cards of appreciation for staff and holiday gifts for our friends. When my own child was about to go back to school this year, Jacqueline gifted her with markers and other classroom supplies. Her generous spirit is a bright spot in the world and certainly within our Holy Chaos community.
John
“I’m grateful for how people treat each other at Haywood Street. And I’m grateful to have Pastor Brian as a friend.”
John’s been coming to Haywood Street, dressed to the nines, since the beginning. An Asheville native, he first heard about Haywood Street through a friend. We thank John for the ways he has contributed to worship over the years, often reading the scripture aloud, and for always bringing style and swagger to Holy Ground.
Cathy
“I’m grateful for the people who work here; for the shelter and the food that is provided.”
Cathy first heard about Haywood Street through her mother-in-law and has been a part of the community for the past eight years. She and her husband come to campus most weeks and spend time building relationships and sharing conversation with many Friends.
Cathy is quick to offer a wave and warm smile and we are grateful for these simple, yet deeply meaningful, gifts.
Tony
“I’m grateful for how kind Haywood Street is to people in need because people in need need that kind of spark.”
Tony first heard about Haywood Street through his involvement with Sunrise as a Peer Support Specialist. These days, he works at the Mission and serves meals through “church at the club” at Level 3 on N. French Broad Ave.
We give thanks for the ways Tony reaches out and towards those in our community.
kristi
“I’m grateful to be here, I’m grateful for Pastor Brian, I’m grateful to be back in the Haywood Street sanctuary.”
Kristi brings fashion, and fun, and ever-changing hair colors to Haywood Street. After spending years outside, we are grateful to know that she is now housed and that a sink full of dirty dishes is something she can fuss about.
Todd
“I’m grateful for everything Haywood Street does for people.”
Todd came to Asheville from Virginia roughly three years ago. He learned about Haywood Street via AHOPE and quickly became a member of our community.
Todd endures many of the year’s coldest and wettest nights outdoors and so we are grateful to see him most mornings, finding rest within the building.
Todd gifts our community with his incredibly gentle spirit and kindness towards others.
