“I wish everyone could experience this."

Ola Washington was a churchgoer her whole life. Growing up in a home with six siblings in the heart of South Dallas, it was a family rule that you would go to church every Sunday morning, Sunday evening, and on Wednesday’s for Bible study. But she hasn't ever experienced the church, the body of Christ, in the way she has experienced it through the men and women she has come to know through Watermark South Dallas.

In recent years, Ola cared for her mom who was rapidly declining in health. As a result, Ola quickly "spent every penny she had", leading Ola to sell most of what she and her mom owned to pay for needs and medical expenses. During the pandemic, Watermark's food distribution was a relief to Ola during this fragile time, but it also served as a bridge for relationships with people in the church to get to know her and love her. This is when "church" changed for Ola.

She quickly learned "it's more than free food at Watermark." She met people who sought to encourage her and walk with her. Since then, Ola has joined the Job Connection Program and is working diligently to get a job that will empower her to begin recovering from the toll of medical expenses.

Ola currently participates in Financial Catalyst as well to learn how to steward her finances for the glory of God and her good. "On Monday and Thursday nights, I see a group of people who love the Lord of all ages and colors. It is beautiful, I wish everyone could experience this."