We are thrilled to share with you the heartwarming origin of our ministry to single mothers, known as PRISM (Promoting Restoration in Single Mothers). One of our core values is being a culture of generosity towards others, and we recognize the unique challenges faced by single mothers in our community that make it necessary to offer a hand up.
Ministering to single moms is not just a program for us; it's a calling deeply rooted in our faith in Christ. When Pastors Jeffrey and Amy Smith became the senior pastors of City of Life in 2009, they prayed about how the church could make the biggest impact in our county. At the time, one in three children in Osceola County came from single-parent families. This issue was close to Pastor Amy's heart, as she grew up in a home led by a single mom and had personal insight into the challenges these families face. Since then, City of Life has consistently offered outreach and support to single mothers in our community.
As the Psalmist writes in Psalm 68:5, "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling." We see God as the ultimate Father figure, and through PRISM, we strive to embody His love and care by coming alongside single mothers and their children. We know that God's heart is close to those facing difficult circumstances, and we are determined to be the hands and feet of His compassion.
Our mission with PRISM is clear: to offer support, prayer, encouragement, practical assistance, and, above all, love to single mothers in Osceola County. We recognize the incredible strength and resilience of these women as they juggle their responsibilities and provide for their families. Still, we understand that they need a strong support system to lean on, and that's where PRISM comes in.
Throughout the year, we organize a series of unique events that are designed to bless single moms and their children, making sure they feel valued and cherished. These events are open not just to City of Life members but to single moms in the wider community as well. We believe in spreading love and hope to all who need it.
One of our most anticipated events is the Backpack Giveaway. As the new school year approaches, we provide bookbags filled with essential school supplies to the children of single mothers. We want to ensure that these kids have all the tools they need to thrive academically, and we hope that this small gesture alleviates some of the burdens faced by their hardworking mothers.
During the holiday season, our Thanksgiving Basket Giveaway brings warmth and joy to families led by single mothers. We provide not only a Thanksgiving basket but also a turkey, so they can enjoy a delicious meal together as they give thanks for the blessings in their lives. It's a time for togetherness and gratitude, and we are humbled to be a part of it.
As Christmas approaches, our Angel Tree initiative brings smiles and excitement to the faces of children. Church families purchase Christmas gifts for the children of single mothers, making sure they experience the joy and magic of the holiday season just like any other child. Our hope is that these gifts will serve as a reminder that they are loved and cherished.
Beyond these events, PRISM offers ongoing support and encouragement through Sunday services, small groups, and connecting single mothers with resources that can help them navigate life's challenges. Our goal is to foster a sense of community and belonging within City of Life so no single mom feels alone on her journey.
At City of Life, we are committed to seeing restoration and transformation in the lives of single mothers and their families. We firmly believe that through faith, love, and compassion, we can make a lasting impact on their lives and help them discover the strength within themselves.
As we continue to serve the single mothers of Osceola County through PRISM, we invite you to join us in prayer, support, and participation. Together, let's be a beacon of hope in the lives of those who need it most, and let's promote restoration, one life at a time. You can give to PRISM at any time by texting the word PRISM, space, and a dollar amount (example: PRISM 100) to (855) 997-6900 or visit col.tv/give and select PRISM from the drop-down menu.
And if you're a single mother, sign up for our email list so that you can receive the latest news on our programs and receive a notification when our back-to-school and holiday programs open for registration.
Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to witnessing the amazing stories of transformation and love that PRISM will undoubtedly bring in the days ahead.