Karla lives on a limited income and can’t drive due to health issues. Even the simplest trips can feel impossible. But through Christian Appalachian Project (CAP) Elderly Services, Karla has found support, transportation … and an unexpected chance to reconnect with a dear friend!

CAP caseworker Sarah told us, “As I was getting to know Karla and sitting and talking with her, she told me her pen pal was her mom’s best friend. She grew up seeing her and spending time with her.” This dear friend, Adele, was part of Karla’s childhood, and she cherished the memories of laughter, card games, and time spent together around the kitchen table. But the two women hadn’t seen each other in 11 years.

Sarah immediately began planning a reunion for the two old friends. She said, “When I arrived to pick up Karla to take her to Adele’s nursing home, we found out that Adele’s husband had passed away that week.”

That’s when Sarah and Karla realized this was an opportunity. Sarah said, continued from 

“My spirit told me that God’s timing is always right … Karla had the opportunity to be there for her friend during one of the hardest seasons she would ever have to go through.”

God’s love and the blessings from faithful friends like you was evident in what followed. 

At the nursing home, Karla and Adele were finally and joyfully reunited. Sarah said, “It was special to witness all of it. It was one of those moments when I realized sitting there that it was a mission moment. This is our mission, to bring people together in their time of need and make these connections and let them fellowship together and be there for one another.”

The two old friends shed tears and shared memories. It was a remarkable visit that gave both of them a chance to laugh together and more. “They got really emotional, talking about Karla’s mom and her childhood,” Sarah said. But they also laughed a lot and teased each other about cheating at cards. Karla’s joy was unmistakable. She said, “I’m going to write to you as soon as I get home!” Later, she told us, “I had such a good time. It was a great visit with her. Thank you for doing that for me.”

Sarah said, “What we do is more than taking  them to a doctor’s visit. Our work is heartwarming. Working in Elderly Services, I feel like I have a bunch of new family members.”

Moments like this are only possible because of you. Through your generosity, neighbors like Karla are reminded they are not alone. They have people who care about them. They are seen, loved, and brought together in God’s perfect timing.

You can lift up more seniors like Karla when you give online at ChristianApp.org today.