11/07/11 – Game Changer
In this, my maiden voyage into a weekly blog citing those people who’ve made an impact on the world around them (Game Changers), I begin with the story of Sister Helem Gay, (a non-denominational Christian modern day missionary) founder of The Mission of Yahweh, shelter for homeless women and children. It begins on the mean streets around Lyons Avenue in Northeast Houston, also known as Houston’s 5th Ward. Sister Helem, loaded up her pick up truck with clothes and food, grabbed her faithful prayer partner, and began to reach out to prostitutes, drug dealers and anyone else they could touch. In 1961 her courage, faith and personal strength led her to found, with her husband, The Mission of Yahweh, shelter for homeless women and children, and later adopt some twenty-six children. The Missions is still located in the heart of Carverdale, once deemed Houston’s toughest neighborhood.
To get her community’s help, Sister Gay would drive her truck through the upscale areas seeking donations. Soon, many churches and families lent their support to Sister Gay and her vision. In 1971, a group of churches met and organized a Board of Directors and the corporate structure to support her work. Today, the Mission Campus consists of 11 buildings and houses, and up to 85 women and children. Sister Gay’s vision continues to drive The Mission’s mandate to enrich the lives of homeless women and children.
Although Sister Gay passed away in 2008, The Mission of Yahweh and the legacy she left behind continues to make an impact. The selflessness of one beautiful soul has made a huge impact on me personally as the writer and producer of her story. Thank you Sister Gay, for in my heart the game will forever be changed by your love.
