My name is Wumi. I grew up in Nigeria and made a decision for Christ when I was 8. I struggled with what that meant until age 17 when I met Christians at University who helped me grow in my faith.

University in Nigeria is very hard. Students live in fear. A degree can take 8 years. It was my dream to come to the U.S. for a better life. I worked hard and got accepted to Berea College.

In 2012, I completed my bachelors in Psychology, but I had to return home for a family emergency. I was accepted at Carnegie Mellon University for my masters in 2019, but COVID struck. After coming back to the U.S. in 2022, I was able to complete my masters in received a job in Buffalo, NY. When I tried to renew my student/work visa the systems were so far behind that I lost my job and housing. I came to Albany seeking help from government agencies. They said my visa would take ten months. I was able to stretch my savings for 8 months, then I became homeless.

For three months I slept on the couch of a church friend. I learned that God allowed this homelessness to make my walk with Him stronger. I went to the welfare office and they referred me to the Mission. I met shelter coordinator, Olga and stayed at the women’s emergency overnight and day shelters. I was safe. I was able to get my visa. Amanda Marie, the Mission’s Learning Center Director, helped me apply for jobs. I was hired by Price Chopper and started work. Now, I am in management training and have my own apartment! I learned that we need to reach out for God’s help rather than trying to do it our own way. I am most thankful to the Mission for being there when I needed them and their diligence in sharing the gospel.

This fellowship and time of worship is what gave me hope and renewed a steadfast faith within me! Thank you!