Hello, my name is Janeth. To my youth group team, I am known as "Queen J," an affectionate nickname given to me respectfully by our wonderful group of teens. To others, I am known as "Taz"—that is a story for a later time. My favorite name is the one God calls me, HIS CHILD. I am created by God; His Son died for me, and I am forgiven. I am chosen and redeemed. I am saved by His grace, and because He loves me, I have a future; I AM a child of God.

Last year, I traveled with a group of 5 individuals from Hope Community Church to the Dominican Republic to serve alongside 40 other individuals from all over the USA. We partner with Light A Candle Foundation to bring hope to the very impoverished areas of the Haitian and Dominican communities. I hoped to bless them, but in turn, they blessed me with their joy, love for life, and love for God. Even in the midst of their very dire circumstances, they choose to be thankful and to praise God. There is so much need in the DR bateys (neighborhoods); but God is good, faithful, and able, and He is at work through this amazing Light A Candle organization.

Next year, I am returning to the DR to aid in whatever way I am called to and, more importantly, to bring a glimmer of hope and love to so many who are in desperate need not only of the fulfillment of basic survival needs but also God's love personified through a kind word, a listening ear, a warm embrace, or a shared prayer. My husband Mark and our son Jhaedyn will be joining me. We are so excited to embark on this journey with the mission to embrace each encounter with an open heart and bring the Light of God into their lives.

We will need about $6000 to make this trip a reality. Your kind and thoughtful contribution will be used for any supplies needed towards the healthcare, clothing and food supplies for the refugees, equipment needed to transport supplies, and towards our flight and safe accommodations. Your support will make this mission to bring a ray of hope to the Haitian refugees a blessed success. Thank you in advanced and God bless