Strength & Dignity Project
- October Highlights -
Woman of the Bible
The Sinful Woman
"And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was reclining at the table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head and kissed his feet and anointed them with the ointment."
Luke 7:37-38
The sinful woman in Luke 7, widely believed to have been a prostitute, was once known for her shameful past, yet her encounter with Jesus reveals a woman clothed in true strength and dignity. It was an act of immense courage for a woman with such a reputation to enter the home of a Pharisee, a place where she would be judged and scorned. Yet, driven by love and humility, she pressed through shame and societal barriers to reach Jesus. Her actions were not just emotional; they were profoundly intentional as she wept at His feet, wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with costly perfume. In doing so, she poured out her heart, showing that nothing was too precious to give in response to the grace she had received. Jesus affirmed that her great love was evidence of her forgiveness, given not because of her worth, but by grace through faith. In surrendering her past and embracing Jesus, she became a picture of true strength and dignity—not in reputation, but in redemption.
Patient Story
Dejonique
Before she found out she was pregnant, Dejonique’s life felt perfect: she had a job she loved, a steady, long-term relationship, and her very first apartment all to herself. So, when the positive pregnancy test came, it completely changed everything. At first, she felt shocked, scared, and uncertain; life had been so stable, and this was entirely new. She called her mom right away, and her mom spoke life into her, reminding her that she could do this and had nothing to fear. Dejonique never considered abortion because she trusted that God was in control and believed this pregnancy happened for a reason.
Struggling to afford the care she needed, Dejonique researched free medical services online and found Alternatives. She called us, got an appointment the very next day, and received all the medical care she needed up until 25 weeks, while forming meaningful bonds with staff who truly cared for her. That support, beyond family, became a lifeline for her. During her pregnancy, Dejonique’s relationship took a rough turn, but knowing she was responsible for another life gave her the strength to push forward. She reminded herself that while things were hard now, they would soon get better. Today, Dejonique’s daughter is one year old, sweet, playful, and full of life. She wouldn’t trade her for anything. She loves being a mom, cherishes the bond they share, and delights in watching her daughter grow. Motherhood has transformed Dejonique, opening her heart to a love she never knew existed and giving her a deeper sense of purpose.
Donor Story
Nicole Schwartz
Nicole Schwartz has been a faithful donor to Alternatives for the past four years. She first connected with our ministry when Heidi came to speak at her church in El Dorado Hills. As Heidi shared about how we holistically care for women facing unplanned pregnancies, Nicole recalls that she immediately "connected with the mission and wanted to help."
One story from our clinic that deeply impacted her was Jessica Rose's de-transitioning testimony. Reflecting on why she continues to support Alternatives, Nicole says, "I love that Alternatives helps all women with all things pertaining to their bodies and supports them without guilt or shame."
Looking ahead, Nicole hopes to see Alternatives host "women's conferences and events where older women can pour love onto younger women by sharing their own stories."
We are so grateful to Nicole for committing to support Alternatives from the first day she learned about us and for continuing to stand with our mission today.
