Betty and her daughter Raeann frequently sit together in the courtyard of Springs Rescue Mission, showcasing their strong bond.

“We’re inseparable,” Betty said.

For a long time, it was just the two of them and their precious dogs.

After years of renting a home east of Pueblo, they lost their housing. They began to slip through the cracks without substantial income or meaningful connections.

“We got evicted,” Betty said. “It was the middle of winter and we camped for about ten days before our tent blew over. It was scary. That’s when we came here.”

Betty, 76, and Raeann, 57, arrived at Springs Rescue Mission feeling desperate and frustrated. But on our campus, they found unexpected support, understanding, and love.

“They give me a roof over my head, food in my belly, and abed to sleep in,” Betty said. “This was the only place that had a place for our dogs. If SRM didn’t take dogs, we would have kept camping — because they’re our family. They’re our babies.”

Despite that support, they didn’t plan to stay. They were quick to announce to all that asked, “we’re just here until the weather improves, then we’ll camp again.” But throughout the winter, God began to work on their hearts.

The support they received at the Mission went beyond providing a place to stay. Each of them found different aspects of campus life appealing and personally helpful.

“I think the classes that SRM provides were very helpful,” Raeann said. “They’re very insightful; made me a look at myself and what I can do better.”

Betty reflected on her experience, emphasizing the personal and emotional support she received. Following a significant health crisis, she was profoundly moved by the care demonstrated by the staff.

“They're very caring people here,” Betty said. “I feel noticed. I feel missed when I’m gone. I feel liked. I feel like I actually matter.”

As they look toward the future, Betty and Raeann feel hopeful. They aim to rebuild their lives and discover a new path forward—with confidence and optimism.

Now, as the two reflect on their time spent camping, Betty is quick to announce that she has been proven wrong, thanks to the love and support she found at Springs Rescue Mission.

“It's foolish to go camping,” she said. “You're not bettering yourself at all. You're staying in a rut. Here at SRM, you can really learn something. You can better yourself.”

As the two move forward, hopefully soon toward permanent housing, they face a challenging road. Betty’s health problems are severe, but she has faith that God will care for her as He always has.

“I plan on seeing a few more years,” Betty said. “I went through cancer once before, about ten years ago, with breast cancer. I beat it then, and I’ll beat it this time. … As long as I behave myself and do what the doctor says, I'll be fine. And I got a birdie on my shoulder all the time.”

Be the Change – Help your Neighbors in a Rut Re-Build their Lives!

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