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Jonathon Woods

Posted on: August 19, 2008 by Charlene Cuva Related Categories: miles apart but close in heart

Johnnie Graduates High School

Jonathan Woods, Jr. came to our church through a Sunday School VBS program in Albany when he was 14 years old. He lived with his mom and six siblings, some of whom also came to our Sunday School on the bus. At that time, his father could not be found, so at 15, due to some substantial problems at home, he found himself in a shelter for youth, and then came to live with one of our Albany church families.

At that time he had been unable to finish 7th grade, two years in a row due to absences. Difficulties in his family life contributed to this problem. He was considered at risk for dropping out of school, but did very well in school over the next year and a half, receiving many awards for his hard work.

After a year and a half or so in Albany, he tried to make a go of returning home to his real family, but it just didn't work out. So since 2006 he has been living in a youth shelter called Bishop Ryan House, which is run by Catholic Charities in Long Island. During that time he maintained regular contact with some of our church families and also some visits.

He is now graduated from high school, has spent the summer working for the county protecting endangered birds and is hoping to attend college soon. There are some difficulties in getting the financial aid he needs, so this process may be slowed down a bit and he may not be able to enter college until the spring of 2009 semester.

Thank you to all who sent graduation money for Johnnie. We gave him half of it with a card from us and his church family, the other half we are saving for when he starts college.

In the picture are Johnnie and his father and step mother whom he has now found and is building a relationship with. It was a very emotional day for Johnnie. We are so thankful for how the Lord is blessing him.

Please keep him in your prayers.