The Desana Nashville team, led by Kathi Gilleland has been very active this year. We have continued to grow relationships in East Nashville at Kirkpatrick Enhanced Option School and the nearby neighborhoods. It is hard to believe that such poverty and need exist so close but unseen to many. By sponsoring field trips, school plays and providing necessary supplies, you (our supporters and volunteers) have helped ensure that at least some of these children will be able to one day know a life outside of the bonds of poverty. It may happen soon or it may take a while but if we plant the seeds and work the fields, the harvest will come.

Last year while delivering gifts as part of our Christmas projects, our volunteers crossed paths with two women that were working their way through a recovery program. Through a series of unfortunate events and a scam, the women found themselves without a home to live in and no jobs. Remembering a business card they received from one of our volunteers, they gave us a call.

Although their situation didn't fit the usual circumstances that we work in, we felt moved to become involved. Through Kathi's patience, persistence and resourcefulness, we helped get them into a permanent housing situation. They were able to complete job training and continue with their recovery. One lady had lost her job because her teeth were falling out. With the generous help of a local dentist and donations from family and friends, she was able to get all new teeth. Two days later she started a new job! Today, they are well on their way to being fully self supporting and we have two new friends and supporters of Desana.