His name is Fourteen. He grew up in Montana and, after having some difficulties, moved out of state for several years. Fourteen eventually found himself in a “dry” community (no alcohol or drugs) and started a new life. He loved it. He once told me he “loved sobriety.” Then tragedy struck.

Around January 2023, he learned that his daughter was dying and had only a few months to live. He immediately made plans to come to Poplar, hoping to spend her last few weeks together. Unfortunately, she died a few days after he got here, and he fell into a depression. Instead of leaving for home right away, he stayed until he was destitute and could not return. That was several months ago, and now he says he is stranded here.

We met Fourteen early last spring. He first came asking for food, then he wanted work. He proved to be a good worker and was frequently at our house doing odd jobs. When a Christian group from Michigan came to work on the Living Hope Center, he worked with them. He worked hard. Afterward, Fourteen told me there was a “different atmosphere” around the group from Michigan, and he really liked it. He even said he “deserved” to be with people like them. I assured him that he did.

Fourteen has had more than one opportunity to return home, but for some reason, he has not made that decision. Lately, he has been to our house nearly every day asking for food. I pray with him and tell him I am worried about him. He laughs and says he is okay. Please keep Fourteen in your prayers. He really does deserve to be with the few who follow Christ.

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