Thursday, March 9, 2017 at Focus
I received a call from Martha saying that she was leaving with Frank to go to Frank Junior because he was sick. "Okay' I said & hung up. She is like family so I was praying that all would be well. I had to go to the Post Office & then to the bank for a Focus deposit first. When I was about to get into my car the cell phone rang & it was a man asking if we were open I said "no, 1 pm we will be just wait & I'll be there in 15 minutes". He said that he will wait. I hung up * off I was to go to Focus, alone. When I arrived I saw Martha's car, in the parking lot, so I knew that Frank, her ex husband was with her & that made me feel better. I saw a car parked on Windsor so I called over that we were now open. A man & A woman came out of the car & went into Focus. They needed clothes & they shopped for about 20 minutes.
Tom came in from praying on the front lines, at Planned Parenthood, to put his eye drops in & then he left. I went into the office to continue my work when I heard the locked door open & heard her sweet voice say "we're back". "Yeah", I said & walked out of my office to greet both Martha & Frank. They were here & I was not alone anymore. What a Baby! I am! She said that Frank Jr. was surprised to see her & said what the problem was, which soothed her soul. He'll be fine. She's a good mom......one of the BEST!!!!!
We ate lunch, for I brought in a tuna salad, & we talked until someone came in & we helped her & her children. Frank put in batteries in the toys that the two children gave him....it was delightful to watch. Her newborn baby just slept....so cute. Later on I went back to my office to do more paper work.....delightful. A good day!!!
March 14, 15 & 16 at Focus
Rochester had a terrible snow storm for two days!! Focus Pregnancy Center was closed. We couldn't get out of our homes to go anywhere. Poor Martha lost her heat & light. She stayed with her daughter & her family. My heart & lights were not affected. Though I did re hurt my back, the Wortman injury in 1986. He was a Resident at Highland Hospital & is now an Abortionist. e grabbed my right arm & flung me around causing a Nerve Root Compression at L5, causing my right leg to be numb & lower back pain, when irritated. My pillow fell behind my recliner on Wednesday & I lifted it up slightly to get the pillow thus causing pain gain! Because of this I did not come in on Thursday. Martha & her friendly ex husband Frank took over & did a great job assisting our many clients. Thank you Lord!!!
Tuesday, March 21, 2017 at Focus
It was a nice day having Jackie come in to help us. Frank & Martha was already in the center when I arrived at 1PM. I had a church Thank You letter to write so I asked for some assistance , in the office, for the format was giving me trouble. I was assisted & the letter was now done. Office work is hard at times. I have to work on a Embracing Option project & writing a new template, for another Thank You letter, for donations. It is time consuming but my pleasure.
Later on Sarah came in with her sweet daughter Helen, to help us. She told me that she will be gone for two weeks on vacation.......we'll miss them both. Helen is 18 months old now & walks around the room saying "cookie". Sure why not, we just have to ask mom first.
It was a good but busy day, putting away donations, which we get lots of, thank God. This means that our clients get a lot of nice things for themselves & their children.
Wednesday, March 22, 2017 at Focus
We were seeing some clients this afternoon but I have received fewer phone calls since our A-Frame & fron door tear offs were taken down due to the neighbors complaints. How horrible they have treated us at Focus! We pray for them daily.
Lynda came in at 3 pm & so did the Elim students at 3pm today. I asked for help in the office which the students did with smiles on their faces. Lynda called our pregnant clients, to see how they were doing, & we have two more babies born.
Baby girl Kai was born on February 21, 2017 & was 6lbs. 5oz.. Mother & daughter are doing well!~
Baby girl Katerina was born on November 11, 2016 at 7 lbs.. Both mother & daughter are doing well~ Glad that we were able to finally reach our client.
Linda W. came in & worked in the Layette Room. Soon we will be putting out spring & summer clothes out in the baskets. It was a fast winter & not to bad until the end, when we received a lots of heavy wind & the a week later a lot of snow. It's over now, so the flowers can come up & the leaves can appear on the trees, once more!!!
I got ready for the first Board Meeting in 2017 & it was going to be a big one & it was. I will elaborate later on. Suing & buying, that's all I can say, at this time. Sorry!!
Thursday, March 23, 2017 at Focus
What a day!! When I arrived at the pregnancy center there was Martha & Frank already there, I guess there was an incident out on the Front Lines in front of Planned Parenthood this morning. A woman came out of the killing mill & went over to Tom, who was standing there, & started trouble. She said that that she was going to spit on him & then she said that she will hit him in the head. He told her that he will call the Police if she does & then she came up to him & threw his pro life sign on the the sidewalk. I asked Tom if he had called the Police & he said "no". What can I do for him? Anyone that touches you or your property wants trouble & can be dangerous & you should call the Police on them. Why he didn't I don't know why????
I had gone to Tops Market to buy diapers & other things for Focus & when I arrived at the front door I asked the volunteers to take the things out of the car for me, they did. How helpful!
The center was so busy for there were donations galore from Mother of Sorrows Church & personal donations & five volunteered helping to put the many things away. We had clients come in so it was very hectic to say the least. Sometimes I shut down & walk back into the office for I have so much to do there.
Martha did a pregnancy test & it was Negative. I worked on getting a car seat, from the City, for one of our pregnant clients.
I am worried about Martha she seems upset with me so much......I'll just pray about the situation. We're both getting older, so maybe that's it :((
Barb was with us today & she brought her newest grandchild in to see us. The mother & father took the precious baby back home after they received some things for the baby..
Our client who was in jail with her husband came into the center to get some things for the children, who are still in Foster Homes. I was stern that she should wait until she gets the children back & she was offended. It was so upsetting for me to see her face on TV 10's website & on TV, that she & her husband had been arested in Buffalo. She said that they were innocent but they have to go to court. If she was innocent the case would have been dropped, I think. My heart aches a lot!!!!
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 at Focus
I came in with an irrigated back & right leg, at L5,the Wortman injury. Lord have mercy on his soul. I do offer this up for his soul. It is a problem. I told Martha so she is aware of my issue. Frank & Martha were at the center when I arrived so I got to work in pain. I did a pregnancy test & it was negative, she is a long time client & she had a martial problem that she shared. Life is so hard at times but God is with us always. I wish our clients would not listen to their friends. Usually they are wrong.......
I am waitig for Gene, for a fundraiser interview, for our next newsletter. I will speak to him about the good Sisters of Life coming to Focus a couple of weeks ago.
I went out to the main room & saw a cart leaving the center & I went out the back door by the office & I saw a car parked right in front of the garage on Windsor St. & asked him to move. Then I saw that he had parked at the STOP sign, at the corner of the street, & asked him to move across the street on University Ave.. The woman was gone. When I came back into the center I heard a loud stream saying that her shopping cart was gone!!! There was no way to calm her down. Gene had just arrived for the interview so Martha & Frank were out there trying to calm her down. Martha called the Police. I told Gene about what can be pit in the next newsletter. I mentioned the Channel 10 interview at
Martha did two more pregnancy tests today & they were both Negative. Neyoka came in with lots of bags of donations from the Second Thought Resale Shop. The main room is filled once more with bags.
Jackie & Sarah & her daughter Helen couldn't come today, boy did they miss a lot. Linda S. came & helped to put things away. She is faithful :))
I got some things done in the office but not much!! Hopefullly tomorrow will be better.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at Focus
Thank God a quieter day than yesterday!! Our client, who had the shopping cart stolen yesterday, called to tell me that the police did not call her back because the woman gave the wrong address at Focus. I told her that we would buy her another cart & she was pleased. This poor woman, who has some brain damage, was put through so much because someone took what did not belong to them. "Thou Shall Not Steal", a Commandment of God, it is a Mortal Sin!! We hope she repents & never does this again.
Martha called me out of the office & I saw that there were five police cars across the street where we park, hey didn't look at our cars so I felt better so we figured that they were planning a raid somewhere. Best to you police officers. The man had the string tied up on the entrance today & Frank took it down. He will never stop :(( harassing us.
In comes Elizabeth with all the donations of baby formula & diapers form St. Joseph's Church in Penfield. She asked Fr. Jim awhile ago & then spoke after Mass about our need. The parishioners came through with so many items that made our heart warm. Thank you lord for their generosity!!! God bless them all!!! What a help for our clients.......
I worked in the office & Jackie texed to say that she will be in tomorrow instead of today. It will be good seeing her. Lynda called me yesterday to say that she will not be in today & she will see us next Wednesday. She is going on an out of town Retreat. See you next week Lynda.
The three Elim Bible students came & did so much work for Focus, they did a terrific job!!
Mark A. came to wish me a Happy Birthday tomorrow & we got to visit for some time. It's always good seeing him & spending time with him. Hope he comes back again soon!!
Frank was here today helping us too. We saw some clients to help at the end of the day. Four women came & two were pregnant, They were very nice & did not believe in abortion. We don't either!!!
I faxed over the Fidelis application for our pregnant mom. Nice girls. They left happy with clothes & formaula for their children. I was glad that Martha stayed with me, for she was walking down the stair to go home, when the girls arrived. She's such a trooper!!! Can't do without her :))
Thursday, March 30, 2017 at Focus
My Birthday!!
I arrived at Focus around 2 pm ,I was slow today, & I had to go to Tops Market to get somethings for Focus. When I arrived I saw a huge sign on the wall saying HAPPY BIRTHDAY & a balloon! How nice was that :))
Martha then said that John Arena, the City Inspector, came by & said that the decal sign on our door needs to come down. "What" I said loudly. Martha told him that we have no address numbers only on the decal sign & the fire trucks might miss us or the mailman might get mad because he doesn't know where to deliver the mail. He seemed to understand, after she said that. He took some pictures & said "it seems like you might have a case". Thank you John!!! I was upset & Martha said that she spoke with our landlady about what just had happened. Persecution & Prejudice & Harassment!!!
Not good people....where is your love for the unborn babies & their mothers & fathers??? We will continue to pray for you all!!!!!
Wonderful people came in with many pizzas & a beautiful cake from the Bakery, my favorite...yellow cake & chocolate frosting mmmmm good!! I received many well wishes of Happy Birthday & many beautiful cards & generous gifts. Thank you Lord!! It was certainly a special day for me at Focus, with my many dear friends!!!
A great day!!!
Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at Focus
Jackie, helped me find 16 clients, that I need to report on how they did after their ultrasound at Embracing Options. I couldn't find a few of the client in my files, so we prayed to St. Anthony, who is the Patron Saint of lost items, & our prayers were answered. Thank you Lord who answered them & good St. Anthony who asked Him. Intercession is wonderful. Now I have the 16 clients to report on.
Jackie also helped Martha, out in the Main Room, with the donations that came into the center. We are so blessed, by God, with so much to give out to the community. The clients leave happy :))
Linda S. came in later on & she helped us out. And Frank was here, to assist us, thank God. We feel safe knowing that a man is here with Martha & I now. Thank you Lord!!!
We have three clients going for an ultrasound tomorrow. Hope they all show up for the test.
Barb & Jessica came to talk to me for a few minutes. They said to rest assured that God is with us in our attempt to regain our 'Free Pregnancy Center' sign back in the window. We are suing the City of Rochester, Preservation Committe & the Grove Community. Discrimanation & Harassement & Predjustice & Racism is what they are doing to us. This is still America!!!!! We have rights too!!!
Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at Focus
What a day!!! I arrived after Mass & Frank pulled in the parking lot right after me. How nice he was with us for I thought he was going for a job interview but changed his mind.. Yeah!!! When we got in to the center he went outside to put the trash cans back on the porch. I opened up the center. We had a woman come in who's cart was probably taken on purpose or by mistake. I ad called & spoke with her husband & asked him to tell her to call me but she didn't. I asked her if she wanted another cart & she said "yes" so I told her to come back next Tuesday & I will give her one. I then said for her to shop in peace for no one else was here at this time. She smiled at me & off she went in the Material Aid Room.
I came out of the office to see Martha now here speaking with a man & he handed her a business card. I introduced myself to him & he said that he was from the Democrat & Chronicle Newspaper & wanted to talk with me. I lead him to my office & we sat down & he interviewed me regarding the case against the Preservation Organization. He took pictures of me & the center a I lead him around. We had a lot of volunteers & some clients spread all over the center, It was remarkable! He took my picture outside holing the 'Free Pregnancy Test' sign & I pointed to the window where it was once & hopefully will return through the grace of God. He was so nice & is name is David Andreatta.
Embracing Options called & told me that all three clients showed up for their Ultrasound appointment but their babies couldn't be seen, for they are to early. New appointment were made for all three clients to return in two weeks. They will see their precious baby then.
I was busy in the office & Martha was busy with help in the Main Room. Barb, our friend & client, came in with a Wegmans meal & we all ate together later this evening. Barb's girlfriend came in & we talked to her about coming back to the Catholic Church, where se was Baptized. We asked she to check out: http://www.catholicscomehome.org/. Hope she will!!
It was a very good day!!
Thursday, April 6, 2017 at Focus
Martha said that Planned Parenthood was busy this morning......how sad!! It was a rainy day & we had our faithful team out in front of this killing mill, to try to save little children, in their mothers womb. It is a hard day!!!
Martha & I worked hard to get thing done because we had to go to the His Branches- Embracing Options Banquet, where we send our clients for their Ultrasound tests. It was at the Diplomat on Lyell Ave.. We had a nice time with our pro life friends. It was a cold wet day but we got through it.
Our D&C interview with David, the reporter, about Focus Pregnancy Center situation with our signs, was in Sunday's newspaper. Here it is:
Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at Focus
A busy day, at Focus, with many donations for our clients. I had Martha & Frank with me & Jackie came later & so did Sarah & her 19 month daughter Helen. Later on Linda S. came to help us too.
We are suing the City of Rochester, Grove Community & the Preservation Committee for discrimination. We were working on the case most of the afternoon. Jackie will be our representative for Focus in the community. She is well educated & articulate. Keeping her busy with Focus as she works on her son's nearing wedding in Toronto, Canada.
Mike came in with food from a nearby supply church. We now have more food, for our clients, in need. We will find a space for it all.
Barb came in & told us that her son's girlfriend, who just had a baby, was admitted to the
hospital for a threat she made. It was serious. Barb did not sleep when she came home, from the hospital, after being there for 24 hours. So sad!!!
So much to do & we give everything to God, for He is in control, of Focus Pregnancy Center!!!
Wednesday, April 12, 2017 at Focus
A busy & heart filled day filled with much pain. When I came to Focus after Mass today I was hit in the heart from a phone call from Neyoka saying that one of our clients who had an ultrasound last Wednesday but couldn't; see her baby & was rescheduled wants an abortion!! We hurried to call her but she hung up on Martha who continued to call her several times later. The phone was busy so I figured she took it off the hook. Not to long after that I received an email from Woman's Care Center that one of their clients wants an abortion too. What!!! How sad is this. I emailed our client & to try to save this little baby's life. Martha called Sr. Nancy to try to communicate with her & the other client from WCC, from her agency. We are trying & prayer changes things!!!
The newspaper had a picture of Lynda hold a Crucifix & a graphic sign & me holding a graphic sign but not on the on line article. Graphic pictures helps to save lives!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We received a big donation from A Second Thought Re-Sale Store from Jerry & our helper put it all away for our clients. Mike brought in lots of food for our clients. Then our attorney that will be representing us was here to take a look around & to speak with me for awhile. He says that he sees me at Our Lady of Victory Church during the week. I did not recognize him there. Now I will. Barb, our landlady, was here too & he spoke with her for a short time. When he came in we had some client s here & the place was a mess but active. He is real nice man!! He said that Jim, our Knights of Columbus friend, that recommended us to Channel 10 called him today for i met him after Mass this afternoon & I told him what was going on at the center. We are in good hands with both of them.
Frank was here helping us a lot. I saw him outside speaking to Jim Martin a man with many issues & asked Frank to come on in. Jim Martin hollered to me saying "Mary" & then said to Frank "now you're in trouble" to which I replied "no he isn't". Focus is suing him & his neighbors, no time for casual conversation.
Linda W. came & helped us too. We can't do without our beloved team......thank you Lord!!!
Tuesday, April 18, 2017 at Focus
Easter was beautiful on Sunday April 16, 2017
A busy at Focus so much to do. Paul came & washed our windows which is always good. Martha & Frank were here when I arrived. I saw a car seat application on the table & started to work on it from the City. It is time consuming but I am glad that they are free.
Mike came in & set up the curtain, in my office, for the up coming You Tube he is going to do with 3 of our clients that 'choose life' after Martha, Sheila & I spoke to them as they were walking into Planned Parenthood to have their precious baby killed. It should be a powerful video. He said that he will film it next week at Focus. Great!!!
He also had brought a bunch of food, lots of bread. from a church on Dewey Ave. for our many clients to receive. It has been a blessing for us!!
Sarah has become a Catholic on Easter Vigil. We are so very happy!!! I gave her a big hug!! She had gone to St. Margaret Mary's beautiful church to receive her Catholicism with her husband, who encouraged her & was her sponsor.. He is from France. He & their daughter Helen came for a visit & it was so nice to meet him & to see little Helen.
I got to talk to him & he said that France is so pro abortion......I was sad to hear that. He helped Sarah to make up Truth packets to pass out to our clients. How nice was that!!!
Linda S. came & helped us tonight. Neyoka came & dropped off many large bags of donations, from our friends, in East Rochester. It's always a help, so we can give out clothes, to our clients. They are thrilled!!!
Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at Focus
A lot got done today in the office! So happy! One of our clients went for her ultrasound today at Embracing Options & saw her precious baby with her mother & aunt, who had brought her to Planned Parenthood, last year, to terminate her baby. Time can changes things. Our second client re scheduled for tomorrow for she didn't have a ride today. Martha called her & she is all set tomorrow. Thank God!!
Miss N. came in yesterday & talked with Martha & I about her messed up situation. We tried to help her for she know s we love her. She is pregnant with baby number four & does not raise her children because of her mental issues. Martha called Willow (a facility for abused women to find help) to put her name on their list for shelter. She is being abused, by the men she finds, in her short life. Our hearts ache!!!
Our Elim students came & put everything away in the donation bags that Neyoka left us yesterday. It looks good in Focus now.
Tim S. came & dropped off some donation to Focus. I got to talk yo him for a short time. It was good seeing him.
Jackie came & did so much to help me in the office. Embracing Options now has the information regarding our 16 clients that we referred for ultrasounds in 2016. Yeah!!
Memo came to ask me questions regarding last year in 2016. He will hire an Accountant for our tax form & we will pay for the service. I try hard to keep all receipts. Memo, will be a grandfather in August, a little boy!!!!!! He's so happy :)))
Frank treated me to a chicken sandwich, from Wendy's,,for lunch & Martha & I to a pizza for supper. How nice is that :))
Lynda has to watch her grandson today & Linda W. is now in Florida with her twins for vacation. We miss them both :(((
Thursday, April 20, 2017 at Focus
When I arrived there was Martha & Frank in the center. We already had clients getting what they need. Martha had already done a pregnancy test which was Positive & she will call me on Monday for an ultrasound appointment. I called over at Embracing Options & was told that our client had had her ultrasound appointment & she was happy, though everyone in her family & her boyfriend wants her to have an abortion!!! Lord have mercy!!
She said that she will go over to Embracing Options next week to discuss Adoption. Martha called her & she said that she needed to get out of where she was. She was helped with a shelter near her. She was happy to hear this news. We will keep in touch with her.
Barb was here to volunteer & was a big help. We saw some Fathers today which always makes me happy :)))
A young man, named Rob, came into Focus after talking to our Rob out on the front lines, in front of Planned Parenthood, where he was trying to save babies from being aborted, by Rachel Phelps, the abortionist there. Rob is going to the Eastman School of music down the street & wants to volunteer in September when he returns back to school. A nice young man & we can sure use him. Thank you Lord!!!
We were busy today & a pregnant client wants to come to volunteer at Focus. I said "okay". It looks nice in here with so many donations this week. Neyoka should be happy tomorrow!!!
Rob said that he spoke with the mega phone saying "this is a preservation zone why don't you want to preserve the children"??? So right Rob!!!
We have seen 783 clients, so far, in 2017! Praise God!!
Tuesday, April 25, 2016 at Focus
A very complicated day with lots going on with clients that had fires & water damage. Frank went & got the food from our new food storage. He brought back a lot of fresh food & bread for our client s who are appreciative. It was so hectic in the center. Jackie came & we worked on the Focusphc.com website to which she will be the Administer. It took time. Then Sarah came in with her 19 month daughter Helen & worked in the main room. Then Barbara came to help us out as some girls were making & eating a peanut butter sandwich, at the table. Fran was kept busy with cutting up boxes & putting then in our overloaded dumpster. Neyoka came & dropped of bags of donations for the Second Thought Resale Shoppe in East Rochester. Then Barb our Landlady came & I gave her the rent & she got the shutter from the apartment next door to us but it was bent. She will contact Chris to tell him to replace it for it was on his time this shutter fell off the window after he painted the building. She does a prison ministry & will not be with us at our Focus Fundraiser on Thursday & either can Sarah for she will be at a meeting about Catholicism. She is a new Catholic at Easter time.
We saw many clients with many needs it must be word of mouth for we have no advertisement out front, because of our neighbors which we are suing. They said at the monthly meeting that they will continue with the case for we don't have a chance of winning. You don't know GOD!!!
Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at Focus
Our three Elim Bible Institute students are leaving us at Focus to graduate in May, today was there last day with us :(( They have been fantastic & we will miss them!!!!
Martha, Frank & Lynda was here when I arrived with more formula & diapers & everything else we needed. Frank helped me unload the car when I arrived. Todd, one of our board members, had some time so he came in for a short visit. He brought a OPEN & CLOSED sign, for our front door. Because we have changed the time on Saturdays I asked Mike if his sign friend could make another sign for the front door with our days & hours & my phone number & our address on it but bigger & in small letters say : Free pregnancy tests & ultrasound referrals & children & adult clothes, on the decal. It would more sufficient. Don't know if this is okay with our neighbors who still don't understand that 135 University Ave. has NEVER been residential & it will never be because of the layout of the building. If it doesn't look like a house it's not a house!!!
Our client did not show up for her ultrasound today, at Embracing Options. She was unable to reach by phone & no email address to contact her. Hopefully she fogot her appointment & did not abort her precious child.
Neyoka told me that one of our girls, who has five children & no husband, but made me believe that she did, just had an abortion of baby number six......sorry Lord & precious little one, who I named Jacob. I will say she is not welcomed back into Focus unless she wants post abortion information. She will need it, for her life, will never be the same again. Killing children is not acceptable. Why are women killing their children? It is murder of your flesh & blood. Adoption, Adoption & Adoption!!
Getting ready for tomorrow for it will be a busy day. First, I need to be at Focus at 10 am to be with Michael, when he does the two YouTube videos, of mothers that were going to have there precious baby aborted but (thank God) but changed their minds, due to Martha & Sheila, who were out in front of Planned Parenthood, counseling them. They both want to tell their stories to help other women to 'choose life'. Then we have our Focus Fundraiser at St. Ann's Conference Room with Dr. Karen talking about Natural Family Planning & other GYN issues. I will speak for 10 minutes & Martha for 5 minutes. Should be a nice evening.
Thursday, April 27, 2017 at Focus
Focus Fundraiser Evening
I had many nightmares yesterday while I was sleeping. I don't even watch horror films & what I got was horror. People changed into monsters that run very fast......ick. But, through the grace of God, I got up at 8 am & was at Focus at 10 am. Mike & Frank were already here, so I let us of all, into the center. Mike started to set up his camera, in the office, for the two YouTube videos that he was going to do this morning. Both girls did show up & gave fantastic testimonies. It is healing for them too & will save some precious babies from being aborted. Praise God!!
I received a phone call about 10 minutes later, it was 10:15 am, to ask if we were open. I said "yes come on in". We were busy this morning when we really aren't even open. Go figure!
Linda W. came to hep us & she is a blessing. Malaysia, with her baby & pregnant Nicole & Christina came in with her little Linda. He had Thyroid surgery & will go for her Radiation in a couple of weeks. She has a good prognosis, thank God!! She said that she will go to work full time when she recovers. Go girl!!!
Frank went to St. Theodore's Church, to donate bread, & then later on he went to Stephanie's house, to get her donations, for our Focus clients
Thanks Frank, what a blessing you have been!!!
We had a client, with many problems, who is going through a divorce & he's not paying child support either & the shool teacher won't help her with her 7 year old son who cannot talk well. She is so frustrated!! Linda helped her with a good PEDIATRICIAN phone number. Another woman came in, with her baby in a stroller, & she started crying. The father of the baby hit her, he was on Heroin, & she now has an Order of Protection against him. Martha gave her WILLOW's phone number for help for abused women. Linda W., my friend & volunteer, father gave $$$ to build the new center & he has his name on one of the rooms. It is sooooo sad sometimes.
Focus Fundraiser, will be at St. Anne's Community Center, at 1600 Mt. Hope Ave., from 6:30 pm to 9 pm. Dr. Karen Dalton will be the speaker. She worked with us at the old Focus for about a year, & went on to work with Dr. William Morehouse, in her GYN practice. She also does Natural Family Planning teaching. Good pro life doctor!!! Thank you Christine for your fundraiser work. How nice if you & Jack!! God bless!!
What a day~~~~
Tuesday, May 2, 2017 at Focus
Martha, Frank & I, were there working hard, for there was much to do. Martha saw clients & I was in the office & Frank was cutting up boxes to fit in our Recycle bins. The City gave us two more blue containers & we will certainly fill them up. They come to take the recyclables trash every two weeks.
In the later afternoon, Sarah & her sweet daughter Helen, came to help us. The first thing Helen says is "cookie"....I then give her a lemon cream cookie & she had a big smile on her cute face. I looked down at her & asked her want she wanted to be when she grows up & she sweetly said "cookie". Okay my dear , no problem :))
It was a good day because Sarah called all our pregnant clients & no one had an abortion!! All are doing well. Praise God!! This makes us very happy :)))
Nothing traumatic today!!
Wednesday, May 3, 2017 at Focus
I received a phone call from Martha this morning around 10 am. She said that will not to be in today because she had Intestinal problems. It was probably the bad macaroni salad that she alone had yesterday for lunch. I had a Ham & Cheese sandwich. Thank God!! I was disappointed that she wouldn't be with us today for I had Brittany & Lynda coming to help. Hope she will fell better soon. She said that Frank was coming but will not be stopping at the Food Pantry today. Okay, I thought.
I got to Focus, right after Mass this afternoon, & opened up the center. Brittany came a few minutes later. She was hungry so she made a sandwich. Lynda came about 10 minutes later with boxes of diapers & baby formula. We had a pregnant client come in & she didn't stay long. After she left I realized that Carol C. asked me to get a pregnant mom for a Billboard. I called our client & she agreed so I called Carol & told her of the good news. I asked if she would call the young lady to speak with her & she said "yes" she would. How exciting is this!! I love it when a plan comes together.
Lynda & Brittany assisted a mother of two young children for clothes. It went well. Lynda ran over to Wendy's for lunch for Brittany & myself. It was good chicken sandwich.
I called one of our clients, that we were unable to reach, after she missed her ultrasound appointment. I rescheduled her for next Wednesday. Hope she shows up.
Fr. Mickey, came to bless our pregnancy center, for we are under attack. He spoke with Lynda & I for a few minutes & then blessed water & salt & sprinkled it all over the center & basement area & he even went outdoors to bless our ground area around our building. He even gave me the Sacrament of the Sick before he left. Thank you Fr. Mickey!!! Chronic pain is no fun. What a blessed Priest he is to us & others. While he was here he gave two cards out to two clients that were Baptized Catholics but haven't been to church in a long time. Hope they call him & come back to the Catholic Church. They were both Hispanics & he spoke Spanish to them both. Wonderful! Linda W. came in & helped a client & then left. I didn't have a chance to talk to her.
After Lynda & Brittany left I saw two more clients & finished my work in the office & went home. A peaceful day. Thank you Lord!!
I missed you Martha!!!
Thursday, May 4, 2017 at Focus
National Day of Prayer
Martha wasn't again with me at Focus today, she is still weak from her Spring bug.....nasty. I missed her again :((
I was very busy in & out of the office today, This ministry is not for one person but we are so blessed by God. Thank you!! I did have Elizabeth come in from 2 pm to 4 pm & she was such a help. First I did a pregnancy test which was Negative & talk with her for a time. She is 17 years old & her friend doesn't care about her. She is on Depo shot & I gave her a brochure on it & a Truth packet filled with information & all DVDs. She was attentive & cooperative. I asked her to come back next Thursday for a repeat test because it was Sunday that she had sex & she doesn't get periods due to the Depo shot. Contraceptives mess girls bodies up so badly.
A man, who was here last Saturday, came in today with me alone & I felt slightly uncomfortable with just him & me here. He did get some things to wear. I was glad when Julianna came in to start her Muriel, of the Blessed Mother. When Elizabeth came in there talked for awhile for they knew each other. How nice was that! I kept Elizabeth busy....poor girl but she smiled every time I asked her to do something. A great help.
A pregnant mom came in & I made up a boy's Layette for her & she also shopped in the material aid room. Another pregnant mom came in & I made up a boy's Layette for her & she shopped in the material aid room, too. A regular client came in & she shopped & broke a glass but we cleaned it up & all is well. I asked Elizabeth to write three 'Thank You' notes & she did.
I was in & out of the office & had to get some information for our lawyer for the upcoming case on May 25th.. Fr. Cushing called & wants to take a picture of the Muriel of the Blessed Mother, when it it finished. Also, Bernadette will interview Julianna for our next Focus Newsletter, after the present one is done & sent. It will be about three months down the road. The mom came in to pick up her daughter & wanted to know if she could call the Catholic Courier for an interview & picture. I said "certainly, that would be great, besides we celebrate 12 years this June". Thank you Lord!!!
A family of two boys came in & his Stepfather changed the batteries for the big red truck we had....both boys left happy :)) Rick came in & got the Our Lady of Fatima banner & '40 Days for Life' signs, in the basement. I worked on the shopping list of $750.00 of FREE food, from the Mormons. They bless us once a year, thank you Sharleen!!!
Martha called & she is doing better but still weak....get better dear lady!!!!
I spoke with Gene to discuss somethings for the next newsletter. Can't wait!
No more Obama Care & we now hve Freedom of Religion!!!! What a day!!
Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at Focus
When I arrived at the center from Tops Market there was Martha & Frank there. Frank then went to the new food pantry & brought back boxes of fresh bread & some canned foods, for our clients. How nice was that!! We kept him busy this afternoon.
Later on Barb, our helpful client, came & then Sarah & her cute daughter came to help us. The first thing her daughter says is "cookie". Okay she got two. Christina came in for a quick visit & she is still working on her cancer care. Wants to work full time so her & her husband can buy a house. Paul came to clean the windows.
It was a nice day & a lot got done. Doantions take time to put away.
Wednesday, May 10, 2017 at Focus
What a day!!! Thank God I got through!! It started out with a phone call, this morning, on my cell phone. The young lady said that she was told by a 211 person that Focus offers furniture & gives money to pay bills. I told her that we DO NOT offer furniture & we DO NOT give out money to pay bills. She said that she suffers with anxiety & can't even go to church. I told her that church will help her anxiety. She said that she has four children. I gave her our information of where we're located & our days & hours we are open. She asked if we delivered & I said "no we do not". I told her if she could get to Focus I could give her phone numbers, of local agencies, that could possible help her & we hung up. About ten minutes later she texed me asking me to help her & again I texted her back giving her our information. She texed me back asking for me to help her with $60.00, to pay her Gas & Electric bill. I didn't tex her back. What more could I say to her. I was then getting ready to go to Mass at 12 noon, when the phone rang, & it was a woman from Crossroads Pregnancy Center, asking if she could do anything for Focus & I told her about this young lady. She said that she will try to help her by giving her some phone numbers to contact. I said "you are a miracle"!! I was to late to go to Mass because of all that went on with the texes & phone call, so I went to Tops Market instead. Oh boy!!!
I was driving down the street when a car pulled right in front of me....great
:(( Then I parked in the parking lot & got out of my car to go into Tops Market, I was almost hit by a car who didn't stop, at the STOP sign. She pulled up & stopped her car & got out to run into the vitamin store, which she shouldn't have done & I screamed at her saying "you didn't stop at the STOP sign just now & you're suppose to stop". She just ignored me. I couldn't believe it!!! When I got into Tops I told the poor teller, at the bank, what had happened. I saw a woman walking by me & I asked if she was the Manager & she said "yes", so I told her what just happened when I walked into Tops that I almost got killed. You want to to know what she said to me it was "there is nothing we can do". What!!! I told her if a person gets hit there, there will a lot you will do then....for you will be sued!!! I don't have this problem going to the Wegmans store. I was upset to say the least. I hope & pray that no one will get hit & die.......
I then did some food shopping & drove on Penfield Rd., before getting on the expressway, to Focus. I was near the green light praying & trying to relax when a car came right out in front of me & another car crossed right in front of me, to go down the street on my right. I couldn't believe it!!! Not again. I put my hand on my horn & didn't take it off for al least 4 seconds. I was not kidding. What is going on here Lord....He did protect me though.
When I arrived at Focus, there were six people waiting at the door, & it wasn't even 1 pm yet. I needed a few minutes to recover. Thank God Lynda was in the parking lot & a young man came over & asked if I needed any help & I said "yes" & handed him two heavy bags to take into Focus, once I turned off the alarm. It was so busy after that!!
People just came in one after another. One client said that she has five children & her husband is in prison. I asked her for what & she said that he had picked up a family, on the road, & when they had left his car there was all kinds of drugs in his car when the police stopped him. He has 8 years in jail. It didn't sound right. People live hard lives & so do their children. She took so much but she did leave with all that she put in her bags. Her daughter came in with no jacket on & a no-sleeve dress on. It was acold spring day. Lynda went, down in the basement, to get a light jacket for her & with the Holy Spirit's help she came up with a nice Fleece jacket. How nice was that!!
Frank came in & left after he put the trash can back on the back porch & gave me a Mother's Day card to give to Martha & said "good-bye", for he was in pain & had some things to do. "Okay" & I hope you feel better soon, for I suffer with every day gross pain. I know how it is to be in pain!! Then a few minutes later Fred came in with the pack n' play that he had sewed. I received a call from the mom who wanted it. I told her that it was here for her. Then I asked Fred to work on a couple of small projects for me & he did. He fixed the front door & the basement door & the smoke alarms by changing the batteries. He was very helpful!! I gave him 4 of my favorite lemon cream cookies. He smiled!!
I received many calls today & woked in the office, Busy, busy, busy!!!!!
Thursday, May 11, 2017 at Focus
When I arrived, at Focus, this afternoon, there was Martha alone. Frank was fishing with his son so we were by ourselves today with no volunteers. Elizabeth will come back when school ends. We made out just fine. Martha did a pregnancy test & it was Negative & yesterday she also did a pregnancy test & it was Negative. She educated both women towards a better life. I worked in the office & Martha took care of the clients. This works out well.
Lisa, Martha's daughter, came in for a short visit & it was good seeing her. We had eggplant for supper...thanks Martha!
Tuesday, May 16, 2017 at Focus
What a day!! I arrived & two men greeted me saying that the one has triplets & the other man happened to have twins....hope so!! They helped me empty my car which was filled with many boxes of diapers, formula & other things, for our clients. I couldn't help them because Martha was honking for her to follow me to go the car repair shop, for I needed a Muffler. It will cost a lot, so I told the two men to come back at 2 pm so we can assit them then. Martha & I are now at Focus & Frank was standing at the door with boxes of food & there was a mom & her two children with him waiting for Focus to open. Then more clietns came in & one young woman with her three darling children was staying about an hour so when other people came in I asked her to leave & she was greatly offened. I did apologixe to her & all was well. It just gets so crowded that it is so hard to see if anyone is taking things they shouldn't. Neyoka told me that she had a entire box of wipes put in bags & then went to get some thing fo rthe three women in the material aid room & when she came out all the bags of wipes were GONE!!! This is intolerable!!! I do not like this!!!! If they dare to come back just don't let them in & if they are in & wouldn't go just tell them you will call 911. Intolerable!!!
It was so hectic my head spined. I go back & forth to the office & the main room. Fred came & helped us, he is so handy. A lot gets done with Frank & Fred are here.
Sarah came with her precious daughter Helen & if course she asked for a "cookie" okay & I gave her a lemon cream. Mmm!
Linda S. came to help us for we were busy. I got a call from Monroe Muffler & I had to pick up my car. Martha brought me & Linda, Sarah & Frank maned the center. When I came back I had to drop off some things in the back of my car & there was a big automobile parked right in front with no flasher lights on. I beeped my horn & someone finallcame out & I asked if she would ask the mom to move her car, it took so long. When I had emptied all the things I parked across the street. The young girl was sitting in the chair & I told her if she parks there again she needs to put on her flasher lights. She said that I am most unkind to her every time she comes here & I said that her face is not familiar & I just asked you to put on your flashers & she said something else & I said "do not talk to me disrespectfully" & if you want to there is the door. She got up & left. Wow!!! I might be a bit of a crouch today but not that bad. Some of our precious girls are hard to deal with but we've managed.
Sharleen, from the Mormons, came & got the letter I wrote for her President for the $750.00 worth of food we will receive. She has been so helpful for many years. God bless her & her workers.
Wednesday, May 17, 2017 at Focus
Another very difficult & stressful day!!! God is with us, so it's okay! When I first arrived at Focus after Mass (thank God) as I was putting the trash bins back onto the porch there was our attorney Jim parked in the street asking to talk to me. I said "yes, of course". He said that Jessica was also on her way so he could speak to both of us about our law suit. We all sat down at the table to talk. There was Lynda, Martha, Jessica Jim & myself. As we were discussing the events, Bernadette came in & did the interview with Juliana, who started her painting of Our Lady of Guadeloupe, about 15 minutes earlier. The interview went well! Then Jim, Jessica & I went through the neighborhood taking pictures of all the signs in other peoples window &/or door, for our law suit. There were many! Our attorney is trying to get our signs back in place before the Judge decides in October, now :((( Hope so!! They both left but before Jessica left I asked her to contact Brian that he would put up the shutter, for it came down in a wind storm, for it's taken almost a year for him to put it back up :((( He said that he would do free gutter job because it has taken so long for him to get back here. Please hurry up Brian!!!
When I got back into Focus & worked getting a client a car seat from the City I walked back out in the front room where Martha & Lynda were & I looked up to see one of our passed clients walk out for the material aid room. I gasped. I asked her to follow me in the office were we stood face to face. I asked her if she had had an aborting & she said "yes, I did". I then said to her that she could not come back to Focus until she repents & asked for Post Abortion counseling. She got matter than a wet hen. She said some dirty words as she was standing now in the front room. She said that she had to have an aborting because she was sick. I quickly said "no, you murdered your own baby & this is not acceptable & if you died right now you would go to Hell". She did not like that but if you die with a MORTAL SIN on your soul, & taking a life is, you do go straight to Hell. Confession & Repentance, of your sin, will avoid that from happening. She had not repented & a mother of 6 children knows abortion is wrong. She was so angry at me. She lied to Martha & I & made us believe, for a long time, that she was married but wasn't. She has to stop fornicating!! Maybe today was a wake up call. I hope so. She did say that she was going to sue Neyoka for telling me & take this case to the media......go ahead but don't come back until you Repent & ask for Post Abortion assistance. We don't want any mother, who had killed her precious baby, go to Hell........we help ALL.
Women think that they can kill their child & all is okay.......no way!!!!
Wake up women!! The Devil wants your soul.
Five very young young ladies came into my office which a lot of energy this afternoon & I looked at one of the girls & asked her if she was still pregnant & she that she was never pregnant. I asked her age & she said 15 & I knew that in early 2017 a young girl at 14 came in & had a pregnancy test which was Positive & ran away. I though she was her. Martha said that she did the pregnancy test which was Negative. The one of the girls said that they were at Planned Parenthood & she took a pill from the bathroom & gave it to her. I said "you helped her to kill her baby"! She said "I'm only joking with you Miss". I answered back "not funny in the least". I gave then a Truth Packet to take with them. The one who made that awful comment, it was her age, said that when they were in Planned Parenthood, to go to the bathroom, she asked the workers "why do you kill babies"? They were asked to leave.
I think that their eyes are opening. Another girl asked if we had children & both Martha & Lynda said "yes" & I said that my twins, which I miscarried that were conceived in a gang rape, at Strong Hospital, are in Heaven & I will see them someday! She said "you should just forget that" & I told her every time I talk about it it's healing for me, so I wouldn't. These young ladies were a challenge. Hope to see them again, in the near future, & keep away from Planned Partenthood.....just hold it!
A couple came in & got some things & the woman & I started talking. I asked if they were married & she said that they just got married in February. I was so happy for they have 6 children together. I offered her a Natural Family Planning brochure & a Truth Packet, of important information, for she is contracepting & doesn't like it. Contraception kills & wounds! I asked her to call Anne Olek, for teaching, & Focus will pay for her expenses. She smiled. A nice couple.
A pregnant mom came in & received some nice things & I applied for a car seat, fro the City, for her. I talked to her about not having sex outside of marriage but told her that we embrace her & her baby boy. She was grateful. The TRUTH is ESSENTIAL for one's SOUL!!!
We were so busy seeing so many clients that both Martha & my head spun. Martha was sleep deprived & had to go home right after an early supper. Get some rest Martha, we need you!!! This is a difficult ministry!
Thursday, May 18, 2017 at Focus
A much better day than Tuesday & Wednesday!! I got to Focus & Martha was sitting in the chair. I asked is all well & she told me that she was sidewalk counseling, in front of Planned Parenthood, which she always does on Thursdays & a woman came out & said "I don't want a baby"!!! Martha said back "God does & no sex outside of marriage"!!!! Abortion is so SAD!! She came in after her time at the death place & cleaned the center........she's wonderful!!!
I was in the office when Fr. Cushing came in to take a picture of the mural of, Our Lady of Guadeloupe, that is being painted by Juliana. He heard my Confession after we talked for a few minutes. He is a retired Priest that is always so busy!! He's 87 years old!
Hollie, from Women's Care Center, came in for a visit. She & another woman are manning the center & they are busy!! No new Director coming to pass. They are working it out as best as they can since Joan left.
Barb, our client volunteer, came in to help us & I treated Martha & Barb to a take out supper. We all enjoyed the meal.
We saw clients & their children & assisted them in what they needed. First client had had an abortion in the past & I tried to help her to heal. Martha gave her all the Post Abortion brochures that we have, She said that she was feeling guilty now & that is good because the women bury their feeling & do not repent until their eyes are opened!! It is a not so pretty Syndrome but forgivable, by Christ, & there is healing for them. Don't go to your grave without asking for God's forgiveness!!!!! If you are Catholic you need to go to Confession!!! Abortion is a serious sin, as we live in a, Disposal Society!!!!
Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at Focus
When I arrived, at Focus, there was a car at the entrance & I asked if she would move her vehicle up a little & she did. I needed to drop off many things that I just bought for Focus. She was a nice woman who was dropping off food from St. Pius the Tenth church, for our clients. A woman helped to bring the food into the center & I was appreciative of her kindness. A few minutes later Jessica came in with her teenage son, Will, to help us for school credit. He is a nice young man & a great help. I was in the office when I heard a very loud woman talking, on her cell phone, standing right in front of a house on Windsor St.. I called her over to come into Focus not knowing who she is but she just stood there talking very loudly, in front of the same house. She did come into Focus & I recognized her as one of our older clients who has had problems in the past. I asked her nicely not to talk so loudly in the neighbor or something like that & she was disrespectful & I asked her to leave but she didn't. She got want she wanted & did apologized to me for her bad attitude. She is pregnant again & we know how the hormones work but she is still not married which I am being able to think no one will be married. I worry about the children!!
I received a call from Lynda saying that she is experiencing Tachycardia, a fast heart beat, & will be on a heart monitor for 24 hours. Then she texted me saying that her pregnant daughter & her husband got into a car accident. All are okay but Katie's back hurts. This poor family what they are going through!!! Lynda volunteers at Focus & is a friend.
Jackie came in & created our new Focusphc.com website & we now own it!!! It was hard to transfer the old one owned by Job, but through the grace of God, we did it!!! Jackie & I are working on it. Looks good :))
We received many donations today & were so very busy & there was a little tension between Martha & I, which rarely happens, so I didn't worry about it. No need, for it is an extremely tense ministry. We were busy getting ready for our first Rosary prayer time but first Christine & Rick came for a Focus Fundraiser meeting which went well. She mentioned a church I didn't want to go back to, for it is so far away from Martha & I, on a Thursday. We'll see, for Christine runs the fundraiser. After the meeting Deacon Bruno came & so did Scotty & we all sat around the table to pray the Rosary. Our intentions were many. After we prayed we all ate pizza that was donated by our friend Jennifer!!! How nice was that :)) Mike came in & ate pizza with us.
Wednesday, May 24, 2017 at Focus
A better day! Martha work well together & again all is well. People will disagree at times. We've worked well together for 11 years...Praise God!!
I thought it was going to be just Martha & I but was surprised to see Will come in.....how nice was this!! He vacuumed all the floors & helped get the donations form the cars that stopped by today, so many!! Which is good!! The Brittany came in & helped us for a couple of hours, too. Then Juliana came in & today she finished Our Lady of Guadeloupe mural that she has been painting on the wall for the last 3 weeks....she's beautiful!!! When I get the picture I will pass it on to my email list.
Lynda called & she is doing better but is worried. She has an Dr's appointment on Tuesday. Hopefully we will see her back at Focus on Wednesday!!!! Saw many people today. A mother who was carrying twins (a boy & a girl) came in to get some things for babies who are due in about 2 weeks. Very good for twins for they usually come early. I got to talk with her for a few minutes & encouraged her to get marrried to the father of her 3 children. He's been asking her many times, she said. What is the problem? None, she says. I did get stern with her for she said that her doctor had put her on bedrest & she's walking around at Focus :(( We do know how to deliver babies......I think!
A nice man came in named Justin & he brought many things for us from the Dominician Lay Ministry. We got talking & he said that he could possibly help our clients, who's boyfriends are not helping them financially, with the children. A prayer answered!! We told him about our neighbor situation & our sign problems. He was not happy to hear that. Nice young man who will pray for us & help us too. Thank you Lord~~~
Thursday, May 25, 2017 at Focus
Accession Thursday
I went to Mass today at St. Jerome's Church for a truly Latin Mass. It was wonderful. I did see Rob, Addison & his wife Genna, Dan & Jim B., all people apart of Focus Pregnancy Center. After Mass I went up the street to the Second Though where Ana gives many bags of donations to our pregnancy center weekly to say "hi" but she was not there. I got to talk to Peter, who was working there, & come to find out he used to work where our pregnancy center is now. He said that he didn't like the protests on Saturdays. I said to him "what did I do that you didn't like"? I didn't like the signs. You mean of the aborted babies either do I but they have saved lives for that is what Planned Parenthood does to babies. I know he said back. I said "where yo the one hollowing at me"? He said back that he didn;t do things like that. I said "good", in a nice tone of voice. I was finished with my purchase & shook his hand & said "good bye" & left for Focus. Small world!
Will came to help us again today & boy did he!!! He said that he hopes to come back next week......yeah!!
Martha & I were busy & I did get upset when I told two women not to take to many things for we see a lot of people. She was not happy with me. You my dear are not entitiled but should be grateful that we care about you & your young daughter to help you. I asked for a smile as she walked out the door & she did not give me one. What costs is a smile ....it's FREE!! My heart aches sometimes......
Tuesday, May 30, 2017 at Focus
What a day!!! When I first arrived it was busy. I received a phone call from a woman named Karen asking for an interview. She said that she could come in in a few minutes. "okay" I stated. I got into Focus where Martha was & a client came in a few minutes later & it was like that all day long. We helped her & then Karen came in & I interviewed her. Hopefully she will come back & work for us at our pregnancy center. A nice woman. While she was here Fr. Cushing came & blessed our Blessed Mother mural. He thinks she's beautiful & we agreed. He gave us more DVD's & we thanked him. He has blessed us monthly for many years. The DVD's have saved lives!!! Education & Prayers will save lives!!!
We had an Hispanic family come back & get more things & trying to communicate with them was difficult. I am trying to think the best.
So many young women came in & Martha & I assisted them. A young father came in & we gave him the Bible & Fr. Mickey's name & phone number. He is seeking out God. God is only a prayer away. Nice young man.
I gave away a lot on M & M candies today :)) Seen so many children it was like a Nursery.....thank God we have toys, to play with, as their mothers shop.
Lynda called & I was not able to answer the phone & when I called her back she did not answer. She had a fast heartbeat & was on a heart monitor for 24 hours last week. She was suppose to see her doctor today. I cannot get a hold of her yet :(((
Wednesday, May 31, 2017
What a day!!!!!! You think it couldn't get busier but I was wrong!!! It was soooooo busy. I was at Focus before Martha today & Agnes was waiting at the door with many donations. She brought in many new baby & children clothes & paper products for our center. Thank you dear Agnes! She said that the females students don't mind abortion especially if the girl was rapped. I told her that I was gang raped at Strong Memorial Hospital getting a Pap Smear in 1971 & I miscarried twins, a boy & a girl, who I will see someday in Heaven. Abortion is NEVER acceptable, in the eyes of God!
No matter how one was conceived!!
Wednesday, May 31, 2017 at Focus
What a day!!!!!! You think it couldn't get busier but I was wrong!!! It was soooooo busy. I was at Focus before Martha today & Agnes was waiting at the door with many donations. She brought in many new baby & children clothes & paper products for our center. Thank you dear Agnes! She said that the females students don;t mind abortion especially if the girl was raped. I told her that I was gang raped, at Strong Hospital, getting a Pap Smear in 1971 & I miscarried twins, a boy & a girl, who I will see someday in Heaven.
Abortion is NEVER acceptable, in the eyes of God!!!! No matter how one was conceived!!!
A woman came in with another woman & I asked for them to sign in & to use the santizer. She mumbled something to her friend & gave me an awful look. As she walked by me I asked her to change her attitude & that we were NOT judgmental nor discriminator or Racist, for we love you". She said nothing & went into the material aid room to shop. There's the door if she gives me trouble, for some girls are not respecting us, as we should be respected. We are here to help you.....not to take any nonsense. Jackie came in to help us & I asked her if she would ask this woman to pull down her top, for she was not dressed modestly. She said that she didn't feel well & that she forgot to take her medication but that girl really bothered me....talking about me. I am NOT your scapegoat & shame on you for your behavior. I received no "I'm sorry" for her behavior. She said that I made her feel angry, that I was watching her making sure she didn't take anything here in a place where everything is "free'. NO IT'S NOT ALL FREE". There were many people in the center where I need to take notice. I pray she talks to somebody & the next time she comes to Focus that she is more grateful. Hope so!!!
A man & I started talking & one thing after another he mentioned that he was a Catholic, so I asked him when the last time he went to Mass on a Sunday. He looked down on the floor. A bad sign. I said if you haven't been to Confession yet you must go soon. I asked him where he would go if he died suddenly. He said "Heaven" I said not with a Mortal Sin on your soul for you have missed Mass or Masses on a Sunday. Go to Confession real soon, I said again. I went in to the office & got Catholic information for him & a book on how to make a good Confession. Don't play around with you immortal soul.....not wise. I said as he was leaving "see you in church". Hope so!!
A very pregnant woman came in with a man & started shopping. I got their information for a free car seat from the City & so on. Now it was time to ask if they were married. She said "no". Then she said that she knows that it's better to be married. I said "yes it is". Martha & I talked with them for awhile & hope that they will get married real soon. Marriage dear friends........
A mother & father & their two sons were coming in & were told nicely that they had been at Focus only two weeks ago. They left. Jackie, Martha & I sat down & made 'New Rules' to hep promote Focus to a better pregnancy center. We'll see how they are received...........
Jackie did three pregnancy tests which were all Negative. She taught abstinence & the clients were given informational brochures for educational purposes. One of the girls wants to get married to a good man in the future. Hopefully she will meet the right man & get married. So many people don't know what marrige is anymore!!! It's upside down!!!
Fred came in to help us & he surley did...thank you Fred!! We have seen 1,200 people so far in 2017.....we need more volunteers.
Martha was so tired & I felt badly about that.....I don't want to lose Martha .
Thursday, June 1, 2017 at Focus
A better day....we now have 8 Focus Rules for our clients when he or she comes into Focus. They must read them first & then sign in & use the sanitizer. We are so busy & sometimes it is a bit crazy. We want to help our clients not enable them. We want them to be self sufficient & less stressed with their family. The demand is so HIGH!!! We are only a small center with big demands....
Everybody was co-operative today & pleasant to be around. That's what we want, because if you bring your bad attitude with you, there is the DOOR.......we are NOT your victim. I am stern (at times) with love :))
Tuesday, June 6, 2017 at Focus
A pleasant day & productive too. When I arrived after Mass there was Frank in the parking lot across the street waiting. He helped bring in some things & I was grateful. A few minutes alter Martha came. We started right away to help people in the community. Neyoka brought in many bags of donations & we got to talk for a few minutes. I was in the office & I looked out of the glass door to see Chris standing there & he said "where is the shutter"?. I said "Martha threw it out". He said "OK " & left. He returned later & finally put on the shutter. Focus is now completed, except for the signs in the window, that we are working on getting back. I just signed the Affidavit & Petition for our future case. The Judge should make a decision, in the near future, for a STAY so we can put our signs up before the case is heard in October. Please Lord please!!!
A police officer, who now works in the City Department, came in with baby clothes for our clients children. She was so nice to talk with & her name is Jackie. She said that she will be back again with toys. Thank you so much!!! You are in our prayers.
Mike came in with food from the Food Pantry. How nice was that!!!
Frank worked hard today with many things that needed to get done. He also protects us.
I called Kevin, from Doyle Security Company, to help find out who puled up two purple flower plants on our property. Neyoka called me yesterday to tell me that they were missing. Kevin said that he now lives in Albany & was promoted by Doyle Securities. How nice is that & he will send someone to check out the cameras tonight. Thank you Kevin & the best to you!!
I made a new rule : NO CLIENTS CAN VOLUNTEER AT FOCUS. It doesn't work out unfortunately.
Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at Focus
It was a good day today! When I arrived after Mass I sat in the parking lot finishing my Rosary when Frank came. A few minutes later Martha came & a few minutes later Lynda came & then Brittany........we are all completed now!!! Clients came in & we helped them & they were grateful.
A young man came in & introduced himself to us. His name is Andrew Hollister & he is a Republican & is running for City Council. He heard that we were having problems with our neighbors & offered us assistance with our situation. How nice is that!! He gave me his card. He said that he has two minutes talking at the City Council meeting. I will give his name to our tow attorneys. We;ll see what will happen.
Mike called & said that John L. had some money he wanted to give away & Mike mentioned Focus to him. He gave me his phone number. I called him & he said that he will do a Bank Transfer. How nice is that. Thank you Lord!!!
Frank went to the Food Pantry & brought back so much food for our clients. They won't go hungry. What a blessing :))
Thursday, June 8, 2017 at Focus
There was Martha Frank & I working at the center today. Need more volunteers here & on the sidewalk in front of Planned Parenthood. Where are the people??????????????
A young Afro-American woman came if for a car seat & a pac n' play & other things for her son who will be born in August. She said that she told the father & he hung up on her & took her off Facebook. It figures!!! She said that she knew the Lord & continued her pregnancy. Martha & I told her that we will help her anytime. She was smiling & looked great!! It's because she' in the light of the Lord!!
Mike Warren came in to tell me that he was going now & noone one was out there witnessing, in front of Planned Parenthood, where they are doing surgicial abortions. I went out about 15 minutes later & as I walked up the sidewalk, with Malachi, the sweet aborted baby poster, I went face to face with reality. A girl had just walked out of PP & was now on the sidewalk coming towards me. I said that this is what abortion looks like & she said that she had one & is doing fine. I said maybe for awhile & then it will hit you right in the heart. She screamed at me & then continued walking. I pray she REPENTS........soon!!
A man came by me & I offered him a prayer Rosary & he took it & thanked me. I was happy.
I looked across the street in front of Focus & saw a man with a child in the stroller standing by our front door. Then all of a sudden he walked down Windsor & was gone for a few seconds. I hollered over to him asking him to stay with the child & he hollered over to me saying "mind your own business". I replied that the child was my business & he should be
polite". He said something else that I will not repeat.......so sad!! The mother came out & off they went. He did say that he wasn't the father but still watch the child because anyone could snatch the child quickly & run off, then what would you do???? Be a good man & respect women & children.
Barb came over & visited us for awhile & Christina came with her son Genesis & shopped. She said that she is cancer free & is going to school for Phlebotomy Her & her husband want to buy a house........sounds good!
Tuesday, June 13, 2017 at Focus
When I arrived after Mass on the Feast of St. Anthony of Padua there was Frank & Martha parked on the street with two vehicles in the parking lot were we have been parking for the last 6 months. Frank asked the man in the truck if we can park there & he said "yes"......thank you Lord!!! I parked in the parking lot & Frank parked there & Martha came out & moved her car into the lot. All is well~~~
We were busy right away with two mons & their small children & one of the moms was pregnant. We prayed with one of the clients for life is hard for her. I understand. Fr. Cushing came in with more Maafa:21 (Black Genocide) DVDs & heard my Confession. Father prayed for the client in need, too. He also took a picture of our mural of the Blessed Mother. How nice!!
Our attorney emailed me that the Judge has made a decision on the Order to Show Cause has been signed that we requested. We will find out soon. Please Lord please!!!
This is what I received hours later from our Attorney:
We received the Order late today (attached) and the Judge struck our language that would have permitted signage in the interim (pending our October return date). My sense/hope is that because the Judge has not yet heard anything substantive from the other side, he thought it important to preserve the status quo until all the many issues in this case can be properly considered. It was worth a shot. We will have the other sides’ papers within a few weeks (early July), at which time we might consider renewing our request (perhaps after we submit our reply papers in mid-July), particularly if we can provide more detailed facts about the consequences of not having the signage.
Religious Persecution!! We'll keep praying.
Wednesday, June 14, 2017 at Focus
It was a hectic day. When I arrived from Tops Market there was Martha , Frank & Brittany there already. I was in the office & when I came back out in the main room there were so many donations in bags on the floor. So many toys big & small for the children. The floor was all taken up with things. At one point Martha wanted to 'Close' for us to put things away after Frank & Brittany had left but that didn't work out. We had two mothers & four children who were very busy with all the new toys come in. One of the woman was in a Shelter & we were trying to help her but is was so hectic & confusing so they left. Martha ran out with cookies for the children, which made them happy :))
Two women came in asking for a pregnancy test. They had been over to Planned Parenthood but they would.t take them so they saw our awning that read FOCUS PREGNANCY CENTER on it for their pregnancy test. It was Negative. I told them about Planned Parenthood & they took the DVD of Black Genocide, Maafia:21 to watch together. I also gave them a pack of information to read. Hopefully this will help!!!! Nice girls......
The a mother & daughter came in & it was sad that the daughter lost her precious baby at 6 months from a miscarriage. I gave her some healing literature to take with her. She has a husband but no home. They were very needy but Martha helped them a lot.
Two women came in & one had on a bathing suit with a top over it but it was okay to look around . She said that she had been to the YWCA. Okay!!
We had a Board Meeting that was productive, We have a wonderful team of members.
Thursday, June 15, 2017 at Focus
What a day!!! It was just Martha & I running the show. Fred came in to do some work in the basement & the material aid room. He put up hooks by the windows he fixed last week so we can put clothes to show on them. How nice is that!!! What a helper.....
Mike came in & then went outside to witness in front of Planned Parenthood where they are killing babies. How evil is that!!!
We had some client s& i had to ask them to read the Rules, which I think some take offense to but we do it to everyone.......we need rules.
Paul came in & asked if he could do the windows. I had no money for him so he will come back on Tuesday. Okay Paul.
I worked in the office mostly & Martha worked out in the main room with so many donation bags. It was a blessed week but a tiring one.
Two nice people from Rochester Works Job Market came in & spoke with me in regards to Brittany. As of next week, she will be doing 20 hours here at Focus, as if it was a job. She is a good worker & she knows us & we need her. should work out well. Martha's getting tired......
Martha was out in front of Planned Parenthood this morning at 7 am with another pro lifer. They were taking to the people that were driving into the place of killing & they didn't like it. The security guard call the Police. He came & just spoke with the Security Guard who is an accomplice to murder & then the Police left. We do have rights you know~~~~~
A woman came in asking to take a pregnancy test. Her girlfriend recommended us to her. While she was in the office I showed her a picture of an aborted baby. She said that she was on the table at Planned Parenthood going to have an abortion & glimpsed at a picture of her baby on the ultrasound & ran out of there so fast. I said "your child appreciates that you didn't do that" & she said "yes, know" & looked down. I asked her questions only to find out that she was married to her teenage sweetheart & he fathered 4 children & then cheated. Her heart is broken, so she found a boyfriend, & is having sex. What!!! That's no way to heal~~~ They both committed Adultery plus the husband. She was raised in a Christian home & knows waht she is doing is wrong. So I said to her that she is jeopardizing her immortal soul & she needs to say good bye of the so called boyfriend & to heal. Maybe her & her husband can work on their marriage & live right with their children who is watching their behaviors. You are the instructor. Your children maybe will cheat on their spouses too someday. She agreed & left with some food. I gave them a Rosary for each for her & the two men. I said "give the boyfriend the Rosary as you say "good bye" to him". She smiled. She was Negative. Your soul is going to live forever where do you want to spend eternity???? Heaven or Hell? It's up to YOU!!! Your Choice!!!
Tuesday, June 20, 2017 at Focus
I arrived with supplies from Tops Supermarket, baby formula & wipes & baby bottles & lotion & Bubble Bath, for our clients, at Focus. Frank took out the supplies from my car & put them in my office. I parked the car & then put the items away. I worked in the office as Martha, Brittany & Frank worked out in the main room. It was hectic out there. I worked on the New Focus Rules & placed them on the wall for our clients to read. Hopefully this will help :))
Linda came in later with her husband Sam to drop off the donations that they received from the Baby Shower at St. Jude's Church. How wonderful!!
Jackie texted me that she will not be in today but tomorrow, something about Bees.
Paul came in to clean the windows. He did a good job!
Yesterday I received a phone call from a client saying that she was upset that Ney embarrassed her Mother in the Center. I asked her to explain more. I called Ney & asked her what happened & she said that the woman who was here 3 weeks ago, that took our many baby wipes, had come back & she confronted her in privacy. She also said that she told her not to take anything else & she did. I called up the daughter & told her that it would be best not to come back & she was mad. I told her that I was receiving a call & had to hang up & I did. I answered the call. She texted me a few minutes later & I responded & told her not to text me again & she did 3 more times & then stopped. What goes around comes around.....she got caught. Thank you Lord!!
Wednesday, June 21, 2017 at Focus
I started out in much abdominal pain......what else is new but it was worse today. I went back to Tops to get more baby formula & brought it to Focus. When I went in the center there was Martha, Frank Lynda & Brittany already there. There were client in there too. I asked them to read the Focus Rules on the wall & then to sign in & use the sanitize. One woman with her about 8 year old son said in a huffy way "I already have read the Rules". I replied back top her that when you always come in you are to read the Rules. She was huffy again so I said :there is the door then" & looking at her sweet son I said to "sorry son". She behaved better after that & shopped & then left. Did I hear a Thank You??? No.
Our regular girl came in & took a lot then asked for the food. I said to her that she was married & it was her husband's responsibility to provide for her & the family. she said "no this is extra food". I said "no" & she started to mumble. I asked her to leave after she got baby food from the cupboard. RESPECT us or LEAVE!!!!
Martha & I were not doing well today so I asked, when Jackie came in for a meeting. I asked Martha way she was s so mad at me & she said that she wasn't. Okay. We all talked it over & are doing well now!! This is a very stressful ministry.
I worked in the office writing Thank You letters & other things & went out to the main room once in awhile, to help out.
Martha had left & I felt an urge to go to see if she got into her car alright. The car was there but Martha wasn't. I looked up the street to see her on the sidewalk across from Planned Parenthood. I looked at Planned Parenthood to see that a bunch of women & a few men were standing there in pink holding pink signs about Reproductive Health Care. I spoke to them for a few minutes then came into Focus to bring out precious Malachi, a Second Trimester aborted baby poster, & another precious aborted baby poster of a First Trimester baby. They left one by one. I did holler to two women, that they needed to repent, for their abortions. They were the last to leave, I said to all that drove out of Planned Parenthood "Repent for Hell is forever" How sad was this group of people :((
Thursday, June 22, 2017 at Focus
What a day!!! I arrived a little earlier today & Martha & Frank were already here...yeah!! A few minutes later Brittany came in to help...yeah!!! We were sooooo busy my head did spin~~~~ :))
I had to work in the office otherwise Focus couldn't run. All our jobs are important!!!
Martha did 3 pregnancy test & one client was pregnant & Martha scheduled her for an ultrasound appointment. She is thinking about adoption.
Our client from yesterday did not make her ultrasound appointment for she missed the bus but she did reschedule for next Wednesday. Hopefully she will make it for she is 3 months pregnant now.
It was so busy it's hard to help everyone but we sure try.
This the first day for Rob to out on the front lines at Planned Parenthood. Mike came & is working on the basement work of our wires.
Tuesday, June 27, 2017 at Focus
When I arrived Frank wasn't here yet so I took out all the things in my car for the center. I bought more baby formula & other donations. I settled in the office when Frank did come in to help. Martha & Frank worked in the main room while I was in the office. I called our client, from Friday, for an ultrasound test & she was happy. She is scheduled for tomorrow. Ney must have forgotten to ask her on Friday :((
Strollers are being asked for & Ney has four in her garage. Two are already gone. I worked on the Referral Sheet for Shelters. Nicole called me & I gave her 7 numbers to call. Hopefully she will find a new place to live. She is still pregnant :))
Wednesday, June 28, 2017 at Focus
A very busy afternoon. When I arrived at Focus there was Martha & Lynda & there were a lot of people in the center already. Then the strollers came & it was so hectic!! I think except one because she had to leave to pick up her child from the Nursery didn't get one. I this so sad that most of the mothers in Rochester don't have want they need for their children. We try, so hard, to help with the problems they have.
I called over to Embracing Options to see if all three clients came for their ultrasound appointments. All but one. She is the lady that we tried to contact yesterday at the horrible Cadillac Hotel where there are rats & bugs & sick minded people. She had been on drugs & is very thin women but very nice. She is about three months pregnant & I gave her literature for her to see the growth & development of her precious child. She did not show up & we are worried. I prayed last night before the Blessed Sacrament for her to be all right & her baby too. We will trust in the Lord with all our hearts. The one client saw her baby & was HAPPY!! Yeah!! The other woman didn't see her baby but was rescheduled for the second week in July. She has 7 children & is married & is HAPPY!!. Yeah!!
A woman came in with a man & I asked if they were married & she said "no". They have been together for 10 years & have produced 4 children. She said that she knows better. He said that he has asked her to marry him, in the past, & she said "no". Martha talked to them about marriage. Hope all goes well with these two people. Martha did say that because of their life style their children will follow. She asked the woman if her parents were married & she said "no". See!!!
Yesterday a very pregnant woman, with twins, came in. I looked at her & said "I though you already had your babies". She said that tomorrow the doctor was going to induce her. Okay that's great!! She said that she was feeling pressure. Martha said "Mary boil the water". Sure Martha, no stove. We received a beautiful crib form Sharleen & she had called & there was no Recall on it, so we put our mother of twins down for the crib. Hopefully she will get someone to pick it up because two women had already seen it & wanted it. That's the way it goes!!
Later on Fred came in & he brought a beautiful car seat that was still good that he found by the curb. He called & there was no recall & he cleaned it up. It even has a Manuel. Good to go!!! He worked down in the basement & painted the ceiling by the diaper hutch. Such a help :)))
Tim came in & helped us with some things. He also dropped off some donations to us too. He fixed my chair in my office. He is such a help!!!
Martha's feet are hurting her so much that she's is going tonight to buy new shoes & to soak her feet with Epsom Salts. My Grandfather made Epsom Salts white, for it was yellow, at one time. He never got a Patent. He was a farmer, in Connecticut, but dabbled in the lab on his very large farm. Oh well~~~
Thursday, June 29, 2017 at Focus
I went to Tops Market & got things that we needed for Focus & drove away. I am so disappointed that, Citizens Bank will no longer be at Tops Market, as of September 29th. 2017. I am so sad. It was so easy to bank & to shop for Focus in one place. Things are changing so fast. The Landlord is loosing money on the rent of the Bank. It' always about the money!!! Sad~~~
Bernadette sent me the Manuscript, of my life, that she was writing. I will read it at my own pace. Lord have Mercy!!!
Marcy & her children came to help us out today.....it;s been awhile & it was good seeing her & her growing children.
It wasn't a busy day, with clients, but we got a lot done which is good! We'll see how it will go with our clients, old & new, coming once a month.
Wednesday, July 5, 2017 at Focus
I called Martha early this morning & told her that I wouldn't be at Focus today. She said "fine". I felt guilty so I came in at 2:15 pm. I suffer with chronic pain & I just wanted more time at home to rest. But I am responsible for taking care, of the Focus Pregnancy Center, with all my helpers. I'm glad I went in. I'll rest when I'm dead.
When I arrived there was Martha & Frank & Lynda & Karen & her two children to help. Brittany had just left. She needs to be on a regular schedule for Rochester Works. It's frustrating! I have to send in her confusing time sheet.
Mike came in & we were in the office when Martha said "I won't be here tomorrow". I asked why. I was in shock, for I need her to be here with me, to take care of our clients. It is not a one man job!! She said that her twin sister had a problem & she was going, to Clayton, to be with her & the family. Frank was going with her. Praise God!! "Okay" I said you need to be with your sister & family. My heart went out to her. Mike stayed & we talked about how another pregnancy center was doing. My heart is always aching about something. I asked Karen if she could come tomorrow afternoon & she said "yes".....thank God :)))))
We saw some clients & helped them with their needs & hopefully, the new Sign in Sheets, will work out better. So much office work but that's okay!
My mind is turning so fast for this is a very busy ministry. Martha just told me that the young girl, that missed two ultrasound appointments, will go tomorrow for her ultrasound screening. She had called her & reached her this time at the Cadillac Hotel. Thank God she is okay. No one calls to cancel their appointments anymore :((( We are relieved that she is still pregnant......she is about 3 months now. Should get a good picture of baby. So much to give to God & He is faithful!!!
John M. is working hard on an updated Focus brochure.....so far so good!!
Thursday, July 7, 2017 at Focus
What a day!! I miss you Martha!! It was s so nice that Karen came in to help me this afternoon. She was fantastic! I saw that our first client came in with short shorts & a low top. I told her to go into the Material Aid Room to put on more clothes to cover up & she did. She came out with a lovely black & white dress & looked good. I complemented her on her choice. She got what she needed & then left....happy. Three other women came in to get what they needed & a friend came in to get some things for her friend but she didn't know what to get her. She Face booked her with no reply, she did her best. Karen helped her.
Rob came in & he got what he needed signs & all & then went out to the front lines to pray & counsel. He is a trooper!!!
Barb came in & we discussed some things & she left. Mike came in & he worked on the new Focus brochure along with Rob & John M., who came in later. What a job!! We are still working on it to make it perfect.......it takes time.
Tuesday, July 11, 2017 at Focus
What a day!! When I got to Focus there were four adults & two children waiting for me to open up the door. Martha wasn't here yet. She went to noon Mass & they had a special blessing at the end. Glad to see her when she came in. A young girl requested a pregnancy test & Martha supervised it & she was Negative. She educated her with vital information as she left. So many people came in with their children it sometimes is overwhelming. I added to the Focus Rules & worked in the office for most of the day.
Our new Focus brochure looks good so I emailed Rick to print some out for our use. We are blessed with many good people that help us to do better. Frank & Fred were here working hard & Brittany was here too. Mike came m& he's been working down in the basement fixing wire all afternoon. Jackie came in with her niece & they helped us greatly. Jackie called some of our pregnant clients to see how they are doing. We have two scheduled for an Ultrasound appointment tomorrow. Hope all goes well. Linda came & worked with the clients too.
One of our clients thought that everything is free & we get everything free......not true. I just spent $130.00 for formula & things for Focus. The clients need to know more about how we run our pregnancy center. We want to help them & their children!!! Two men came in for men's clothes. I asked them not to mention us to the public because that would be a problem. They found a few things. We rally say "no" to anyone!!
Martha did another pregnancy test today. The client told me that she was marrried but her paperwork stated that she was not. She was Negative. Nice young lady. Hope her life gets better. Martha gave her literature & a DVD. That should help get her started......
Wednesday, July 12, 2017 at Focus
It was a quieter day! We still saw many clients but not all at once. A mother came in saying that she was going to sue her former landlord for a buggy apartment. She was mad. A Father came in for formula & other things for his 12 month son. Thanks for being a good father! Another girl came in for things & then another woman came in with her 9 month old son, who Martha was watching, while the mother shopped. He was so cute!!! A Social Worker picked food, formula & a baby girl Layette for her client. Another client came in for assistance. I think the new Focus Rules are helping!!!
Mike came in & worked in the basement fixing our lose wires. We want to be safe. Thank God he is here helping Focus to function better.
Frank & Fred were here helping & we were so glad. Martha worked on his back, for he has a large boil, on it. I will pick up a First Aid Kit soon. We want to be prepared.
Liz, a graduate student from Mercy High School, said that she will be coming back to Focus to help, hopefully tomorrow. Her father, is at Holy Hour, where I go on Tuesdays. Nice family!
Martha is still upset with what her twin sister is going through, poor dears. I keep them in my thoughts & prayers.
Thursday, July 13, 2017 at Focus
Hectic & busy at Focus!! When I arrived Frank took out the things I bought at Tops & Staples. Baby formula is a problem. No sooner that I buy it, it is gone!! I need more $$$ to buy more.
Tamera was with us today & was such a help to me in the office. I rarely have help in the office. She even took a couple of projects home to work on. Yeah!
I happen to ask her to tell me her story & I was blown away by what she told me. Pain is in every persons life. Her story is profound!! I will keep her in my thoughts & prayers. She will also pray for me, she said. Healing takes time & energy. Don't give up!!!
Martha is growing more tired, she is 75 years young. I hope she stays with us for a long time. Get some rest this weekend dear heart!!! Her sister, is doing a little better, though Martha is concerned.
Mike was here & he worked in the basement & put a 'NO PARKING' -You will be Towed, sign on the side of our building. Looks great Mike & thank you so much!! What a blessing he is at Focus :))
Brittany was here to work. She does have some problems & I hope she gets them resolved soon. Nice girl. Karen came in to work an hour ....great!!
I called for pizza & we all ate at the table. Thin sliced, no gluten. Maybe next time I will order the ticker crust. Oh well :(( Our clients daughter took the rest, she wanted pizza.....who doesn't!
I got to talk to some moms today & hope I helped them in some way. Prayer & Education is so important. We want their lives better!!!
We had a pregnant mom come in for things. She is due next week. She has two daughters & will deliver a son, named Joseph soon. After she left Martha told me she is living at Willow, for Domestic Violence. "It's a long story" she told Martha. Abuse is so common. So sad!!!
Another mom, with a baby & a young daughter, came in from a Place of Hope. They live there, it's a nice temporary place, I heard.
Where are the Fathers????
Another woman came in & said that she almost died from her past delivery. "This is three times now", she said. I asked her if she was married & she said "no", so I said the only way you won't get pregnant again maybe die is not to have sex. "I know" she replied. I gave her all the information on abstinence I had, for her to take & read. Hope it helps!!! No one is married.
One of our moms was married but her husband died. After that she was grieving & had sex & delivered a baby later on. She knows it was wrong. That's half the battle is to recognize one's sin. Call sin, sin ....no excuses. I gave her the '10 Commandments' to take with her, to confess her sins to Christ, who will forgive her. We have to be sorry & to ask Him to forgive us, for our sins, & try not to repeat them again. She was a nice wise woman.
A good day....like always, though difficult at time. That's life~~~~
Tuesday, July 18, 2017 at Focus
A good day!! I am just going through a deep sadness, & through the grace of God, I will get over it. So much on my mind. When I arrived there was Martha & Frank helping a client. Focus looks good....Neyoka does a great job on Mondays & Fridays. We received many bigger things & they all went so fast. I was a little upset to see that I had put the 'free' new make up in a basket & all went right away. Maybe some of the girls are selling things? Only if they use the money on their families & themselves. NO DRUGS!!! Dealing with trickery is a part of the ministry. We do the best we can with the clients. We love & care about them, but please trust & respect us, who is helping you!!!!!
Barb came in & another possible change maybe will occur. She wants the excess clothes, in the basement, to go to a Storage Closet & she will move them & pay for it. I asked her to speak to Neyoka who works so hard in the basement . She said that she will. I changed the sign in sheet but I do not like it so I am thinking of going back to the separate sign in sheet every time the client comes in. It is easier to count, which is important......
I bought more baby formula & all but two are gone :(( I need either more money or people to donate it, so I sent an emai,l to my email list which is many. They are supportive of Focus!!!
Frank went to get food from the Food Pantry & it was mostly bread & tomatoes & canned foods. It will help!!
A women came in with her Godmother & recived some nice things. She said that they were homeless so I gave them referrals to the Shelters that I am aware of in Rochester. She also was given food . Hope we helped them today.
Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at Focus
What a traumatic day!! When I arrived there were two men that were here checking in the basement our water pipes. Barb hired them to fix the problem. They will talk to her first & then come back another time to do the work. We have to more many bags downstairs before the work gets done. Neyoka!!!
I walked into the office, to do my work, because there was Martha & Frank & Brittany here. I did talk to Brittany, to see if she was still volunteering with us, in the future. It has been so awkward. She is here & then she is not here & no phone call to say she's not coming in. I did ask her to call me if she is not able to come into Focus, she agreed that she would. I said "okay" & she went back to work in the main room. All is well for about an hour & a half. Brittany came in the office & said calmly "my cell phone is gone". "What", I said. I got up & started to see what had happened. I went over to the camera & looked from earlier on & the camera went dark. Martha suggested that I try again & I did. Frank & I & sometime Martha looked at the coverage & finally we saw the man who took it. He came in with a woman & two small children. I had the feeling that he was the man I spoke with earlier, saying that Baden Street Settlement had recommended us to him, for her needed children's clothes. We got the man who stole the cell phone. We saw him reach over the table quickly & take it. We spotted him on film after Brittany had left. Martha called the police & they said that Brittany had to be the one to call for it was her cell phone. Now I had to track down Brittany.... I called her boyfriend but he didn't know where she was so I asked if he would try to get in touch with her somehow & he said that he would email her to call me. I said "thank you very much" & hung up!!! In the meantime Frank & Martha (stressd & tired) had to leave so I was now alone. Martha on her way out put the closed sign on the door & I went back to the office to do more work.
The next thing that happened was my printer is chopping up paper like no tomorrow, I called Mike & he said that he will have his friend stop by tomorrow to see what is wrong. Please Lord please no replacement of the printer I use so much.
Brittany finally called me on the office phone & I gave her the name of the man & his phone number & address. She was going to call 911 & then get back to me. I'll stay if I need to but go home if I can. I'm still waiting!!!!
The other clients were all fine. One of the men, that came in with his wife, did say that his brother's daughter killed her boyfriend that was abusing her. She is now in jail. I don't know what her outcome will be. Please don't kill anyone call the police & get away. Maybe it was self defence we'll see. Lord have mercy!!!
Another interesting day at Focus :))
Thursday, July 20, 2017 at Focus
I was buying formula again today Martha was already here & Frank & Brittany came latter. I asked Brittany if she had called the man who stole her cell phone & she said "yes" & he said "I didn't do it, you have the wrong person". He said that to me when I called him last evening. I told him we have him taking, the phone, on the camera & he needs to bring it back & leave it on the back porch otherwise I will call the police. He said the same thing to me & I hung up on him. He steals & lies......
Brittany said, this afternoon, that the police told her last night when she called that she has to get a picture of the man. I said "what"! So I went into the office & prayed & played with the camera & retrieved some pictures of the man stealing the phone. Brittany emailed them to herself & said that she will call the police when she gets home. I asked her to call me afterward. She also said that the person lives on the next street over from her. Convenient.
My printer still doesn't work & Mike & Jackie both looked at it. Always something :(( John came in & called the company & after much time trying to work on it they said it was a broken, in better words not fixable. Time to buy another one :(((
Our clients need to read the Focus Rules & obey them. It is time consuming reading them & we need to be patient with some of our clients. One mother came in with her children today that had been at Focus early this month. I spoke with her about what that it says about once a month unless it is an emergency. We need time to work on the donations & things & to be able to talk to our clients, when they come in, to see how they are doing.
Tamera came & brought the numbers of clients that we have seen so far in 2017, she had counted them all at home...it is 1,532 plus, for I haven't counted the number of clients, in July yet.
Barb came in & visited with us for awhile. it was so nice she was able to stay for supper....
Another stressful three days at Focus!! Martha looks so tired.
Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at Focus
I was called by Mike to open up today at 12 noon for he was bringing Mr. S. with him to look at our new printer that Rob put together but the computer did not recognize the printer. I arrived on time & when they came he looked at the computer & said that it was old as the hills. Not good! He will order a new one on line & we will reimburse him for the purchase. He will come to set it up when he receives it. How nice of him!! They left & I was alone for about 20 minutes when Frank came with his two grandchildren. Martha was at a hearing doctor's appointment & will come when she is done. We were busy when she did come. I was so happy to see her. She did tell me that she & the girls won't be here tomorrow :(( Okay, enjoy your swim & picnic girls. I think Frank will be here with me. Brittany called to say that she will not be with us today, for she had to go the eye doctor, for her troubled eye is swollen again. I hope she can come tomorrow.
We saw clients that have come already this month.....I wonder if they are reading the rules? We see so many people that it sometimes makes me nervous & sad.
Our formula is down & we at this time do not have the money to purchase anymore until I receive a big check. The girls have to depend on another agency or have to buy the formula. I am soooooo sorry :((((
The need in the community is so great & we can't keep up with the demand.
Though we are trying>>>>
Frank & Fred were here working so hard & I am grateful. Frank went to pick up the food & brought back many fruits & vegetables & lots of bread :)) People need food so It's going fast. Sarah who just had a baby said that she will come back next Tuesday with her daughters. Lynda will not be here tomorrow. It is hard ministry but I know the Lord is with me.
Both Linda W. & Linda S. were here to help. Jackie & her niece both came. Jackie spoke with one of our clients, that hung up on her last week but it wasn't her. She talked with our client & she is doing fine in her pregnancy. Another client had a miscarriage .....so sad.
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 at Focus
It was a good with Frank!!! He was such a big help again :)) He weeded the yard with his trimmer & it looks great. He went to get me a hamburger at Wednesday & I was grateful.
I saw the first client who was parking in the parking lot next door for she could be towed for $130.00. Frank saved her from that....
I was administrating a pregnant mom about her life & she said to me "I am sick of living in my sin". I was in shock. I gave her the 'Ten Commandments' to take with her. She has four children from this man that won't marry her. She has something to think about.
I saw many clients today & gave away all the formula today.........
One girl went to Planned Parenthood & was mad that they told her to wait for two hours for her Depo shot. We spoke for awhile. I gave her our doctor's list & many brochures & all the DVD's we have.
Memo came to look at the IRS form that I received in the mail on Saturday. He didn't know what it was but I signed it & he took it with him. It was so good seeing him again, it's been awhile.
Frank took the dirty rug out of the play room. Also, I went back to the old way of signing in the 'Sign In' book. It will work out better.
Frank shared his stories with me. It was a nice day!!!! Thanks Frank!!!
Thursday, July 27, 2017 at Focus
I got to Focus late, because I was buying Tops market, out of formula. When I got to Focus the girls & Frank helped me get the merchandise out of my car. When I got into Focus Martha & Mike were here. Tamera was outside on the front lines witnessing. Marcy called to tell me that she was having car trouble & couldn't make it. I was at Staples taking back the old toner to the old printer. Thank God I had the receipt.
I went into the office after greeting everyone to start my work. Clients who wanted formula were interrogated by me today & only one received it. Two had jobs & the other woman said that she will ask around. Sounds good to me. One client was referred by WIC program to me & I told her that we didn't have any formula for today. Unfortunately Martha sent them to the office were they can see them on the shelf. Not good. I don't have enough for tomorrow or Saturday or Monday.This situation didn't go well. She was offended because I suggested that she uses her money for formula. She said "I am a good mother" to which I replied I never said that you weren't please don't go there". Her mother came in to the office & I said that she has to get it somewhere else & I gave her our short list. They went to the car. Her sister was more reasonable & understood, so I gave them three small bottles each, to carry them through. That is all I can do at this time. (I have to pay the rent next week & at this time I don't have enough $$$ to pay it. I'll be okay, for God is always takes care, of Focus). This mom works at Tops so she said that she will ask her boss for assistance. Okay, sounds good. This is NOT easy discerning who gets formula & who doesn't......poor babies!!!
I did find out that they cannot sell 'Tippy Toes' formula at the corner stores only Enfamil brand. So I feel good that all our formula goes to fed the children. Praise God!!!
Hollie & Scott came in & brought in 4 pizza pies. How nice was that :)) We all ate well. Mike came in from the sidewalk & ate with us. We had good conversations & it was fun!! Mary Ann came in to get a sign, & then went out to pray the Rosary, in front of Planned Parenthood. I was talking to Tamera, when I was interrupted by two clients, asking for formula.
Mike & Frank, cut some of the branches, off of the tree, in front of our center, for it was blocking the FOCUS Pregnancy Center words on the awning. The next door neighbor came to see what we were doing........ so sad :((
It was so hard to hear, that one of our clients had two abortions, at Planned Parenthood, across the street. Neyoka is helping her with the healing. Also, she is receiving counseling, at a center in Bull's Hill. I gave her a Project Rachel brochure to call for fellowship. She had her baby, in her arms, & thanked me & left almost crying. Heartbreaking!!!
Abortion is horrible~~~~don't have one!!!
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