Delano from Resident to Employee!!

As Delano quietly sits and waits for his interview, one can’t help but notice his laid back, yet self-assured personality. Although Delano is only 18, he has already had to travel an extremely difficult road.

Before finding himself at Covenant House six months ago, Delano was staying with a friend until he could no longer live with them. He was referred to Covenant House by his social worker and was instantly repulsed by the idea of living in a "shelter." Although he did not want to live at CH, he had no other options, he "had to do what he had to do."

Once Delano let his guards down, his feelings changed drastically. With the support of other residents and the help of staff members, such as Ms. Blanka and Ms. Taylor, Delano quickly found himself enjoying Covenant House as each day passed. Delano says since being at CH, he has "gained friendships, gotten baptized and even got a job."

As a resident and worker at Covenant House, Delano prides himself on the accomplishments he has made. While working with Street Outreach, he bravely walks the tough streets of Detroit offering assistance to anyone who is willing to be helped. He hands out snacks, hygiene kits, clothing and, most importantly, words of encouragement to those he encounters on the streets. When asked if he ever finds himself afraid to walk the streets of Detroit he says, "Well, yes, but my trust in my partner and faith in God gets me through it all."

In his spare time, he enjoys reading, playing basketball (and rooting for the Lakers) and rapping. In the not-so-distant future, he sees himself going to college for medical school while continuing to offer his services here.

While Delano’s life has not always been great, he lives by the notion of "Just stay strong when you’re in a bad situation; God will help you." And with the help of God and Covenant House, what was once a bad situation has become a blessing in disguise.

Please donate now so that others like Delano can receive the help that he has received thanks to Covenant House.