"The We Care Thrift Center is more than just a store—it’s a vital part of the community. The store is always clean and well-stocked with interesting items, making it Dayton's best-kept secret.

We Care provided a temporary home for me and my child after we became homeless in March 2023. I had discovered hidden cameras in our home, placed by my husband to monitor us when he wasn’t there. His unpredictable and violent behavior made staying with him impossible and terrifying. One morning, after one of his outbursts, we had to leave in a hurry without packing any of our belongings. Thankfully, we were able to stay in a tiny house provided by We Care while our new apartment was being built.

I started working at the thrift center, and shortly after, my daughter joined me. I don’t know what we would have done without the safety of the tiny house. Rentals are hard to find in Rhea County, and without We Care, we might have been forced to return to my husband's unsafe home or face homelessness.

When I think about the best part of We Care, I think of Laura. She’s a patient listener and works tirelessly each day to keep the store running smoothly. She insists on an inclusive work environment and ensures everyone shares responsibilities fairly. I would follow her anywhere."

-Amanda

"This is going to be a bit long, but I want to take the time to let those who were there for me know just how important they still are to me.

A year ago, I returned to what I thought was my forever home—only to find I was locked out. My poor little dog was still inside, the locks had been changed, and a note on the door said that the home I had lived in for 17 years was being foreclosed on. I was terrified, shaking, and completely alone. I had no idea what to do. Somehow, I managed to get inside, rescue my dog, and grab whatever I could fit in my car. I left behind so many things that meant the world to me.

With no family and no close friends—my spouse had abandoned us—I had only about $500 to my name. I needed to find a place to stay and somehow keep clean for a job I hated. I had already lost a job I loved, lost my health insurance, and now, my home. My life was in chaos.

Today, things are a little better. I’m still afraid of losing what little I have left, but I’ve worked two jobs since everything happened. After juggling 40-hour work weeks between the two, I now have two jobs I love—one full-time, and one part-time.

I want to say a special thank you to Laura, who helped me through this incredibly hard time. She became more than just a friend—she became like family to me when I had none. Through her program, I had somewhere safe to stay until I could find a rental. And it was because of her that I found affordable housing through the We Care Community.

You can say what you will, but I’ve been there—I know the truth about how much they care and how they help people without making them feel like they’re nothing. Laura encouraged me every step of the way, always keeping me positive. The team at We Care helped me with clothes, shoes, and food when I had nothing. I am so grateful for them, especially since my own relatives, who lived close by, never even checked in on me.

To those who might judge or criticize, before you throw dirt on them, take the time to see the amazing programs and services they provide for this community.

Lastly, I want to thank my best friend, who asked to remain anonymous. You never let me give up, no matter how hard things got, and loved me through it all. Sandy Lovelady, my dearest friend, thank you for taking care of my little dog while I was in transitional housing and for always checking on me. You kept me going, even through the darkest days.

And to those who listened to me cry and vent, who kept me sane and happy while I was homeless and scared—thank you. Most of you didn’t even know because I felt too ashamed and embarrassed. There were people who made fun of me, telling me to get a job, even though I was already working two jobs and trying as hard as I could. But I’m not ashamed anymore. It happened, and I’m doing everything I can to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

There’s no shame in being homeless or asking for help. Bad things happen, and you never know when they might happen to you. So, be mindful of what you say to others because they might be going through something difficult. If you can help someone, even in the smallest way, do it—it might mean more to them than you’ll ever know. For some of us, just a kind word or a hug could be the difference between surviving or not.

Thank you, Laura, and the entire We Care Community, for everything you’ve done for me and for the services you continue to provide. I can’t express my gratitude enough to you and those who loved me and kept me going. From the bottom of my heart—thank you."

-Marina

"Laura and everyone at We Care,

I wanted to take a moment to express just how grateful I am for the opportunities and shelter you’ve provided. I'm 20 years old and have never written a thank-you letter before, but I truly just want to say, "Thank you." Without your belief in me and my mom, I don’t know where we’d be right now.

I’m not used to people being so kind. You lead by example, and I deeply appreciate that.

Honestly, I don’t know what else to say—"thank you" just doesn’t seem like enough. So many people are quick to turn their noses up at those who have fallen on hard times, but I’ve never experienced that at We Care."

With sincere gratitude,
Nic

"I hope this letter finds you well. As I prepare to move from We Care, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt graditute and share the profound impact this shelter has ha on my life since I arrived her on October 1, 2024.

When I first came to We Care, I was overwhelmed by the challenges I faced. The uncertainty and hardships of homelessness weighed heavily on my family and me. However, the peaceful enviorment and the sense of community rooted in faith have truly transformed my experience.

At We Care, I found not only shelter but also a nurtuting space filled with kindness and understanding. The presence of God in this place is palpable, providing comfort and hope during difficult times. I have witnessed firsthand how faith and support work hand in hand to uplift those in need. The prayer circles, uplifting messages, and the dedication of the staff to serve others are a testament to the love that permeates this shelter.

The resources available at We Care, including job training programs and family support services have been invaluable. I have gained practical skills, as well as the confidence to pursue my goals. The unwavering support from the staff and community members has been a guiding light on my journey toward stability and self-sufficiency.

As I excel from this program, I carry with me not just the lessons learned but also a deep sense of peace and a renewed hope for the future. I am excited to apply the life skills I have developed here as I take my next steps forward toward independence and a brighter tommorrow for my family.  "

-Alex