April 2025: She Knows My Name
In our fast-paced world, fractured by haste and aggression, a quiet and largely unnoticed movement is unfolding—New Yorkers nurturing deep, genuine bonds across differences.
The story of Christie Ray and Allie (below) offers a glimpse of how we can respond with a spirit that runs counter to so much of what we see around us.
With gratitude,
Andrew
Support Us
Today kicks off our Spring Campaign! Help us raise 20K by the end of May and widen the circle once again. The first 5K will be matched by a generous donor!
She Knows My Name
Forming a connection with Allie takes time—more than most are willing to give.
As a result, she’s rarely had the chance to give and receive the gift of friendship. Just before she passed, this was exactly what Allie’s mother hoped for when she reached out to us.
At first, Christie Ray visited Allie regularly, always arriving with a warm smile and baked goods.
Allie called her “the new girl.”
...Christie Ray kept showing up...
A few visits in, Allie called her “Ray.”
...Christie Ray kept showing up...
Six months later, Allie said her full name for the first time: “Christie Ray.”
And now? Even in her absence, Allie brings up Christie Ray’s name throughout the day, asking her aide when she’ll see her again.
Christie Ray (left) and Allison (right) celebrating Allie’s birthday together for the 3rd year in a row.
“It’s hard to slow down when everyone else is running at lightning speed around us and is so focused on what we’ve achieved or accomplished, but I’ve come to treasure those slower moments with Allie and Lika (Allie’s Aide), where the Lord lets me pause and just enjoy friendship.”
April Prayer Request
PRAY continuously for those in our community who are facing housing challenges.
