In 2005, Mary found herself moving from place to place, and sometimes even sleeping in her car. In many of those places, she was very uncomfortable. At some point, she shared her predicament with her pastor, Apostle Hattie Stancil. She was introduced to the church’s ministry, Esther House. Mary met all the criteria, and moved in. She lived in Esther House for one and one half years.

Mary shared that Esther House allowed her to have a place to stay and at the same time, save money for her own place, in the future. The cost to be able to move in, and live there monthly, was nominal, compared to moving into a rental place, and it really just wasn’t possible at that time. In addition, at the Esther House, any woman living there, had already been screened. They shared utility expenses, the purchasing of household items, keeping the home clean, and they prayed together. She bonded with the ladies in the home, and they all encouraged each other.

While living there, Mary learned many things. By attending the church, now known as Harvest Word, she learned spiritual lessons and principles of how to live a productive life for the Lord, Jesus Christ. And through sessions with the Director, she learned how to budget, save money, and learn other things that she needed to do, that she had not been doing before, to help her reach her goal of owning her own home budget, save money, and learn other things that she needed to do, that she had not been doing before, to help her reach her goal of owning her own home. Mary, exceeded her goals. She now lives in a home that she owns free and clear. Mary was able to buy another car, and just in general, "get on her feet." She credits Esther House, and its program with helping her to succeed. She maintains that anyone that’s in a similar situation, willing to listen and abide by the established rules can be greatly successful. Mary, with great conviction and sincerity, says "if not for Esther House, I would not be where I am today. While there, I grew spiritually and in every other way."

Mary also shared that she is giving forward, using the Esther House principle. As the Lord has lead, she has allowed young women who are in similar positions --- needing a place to stay until they can get on their feet, to live with her, an Esther House blessing.