Before Gladys Rodriguez learned about Barnabas, she did not speak English and needed to find a way to earn money while taking care of her 89-year-old mother in their home.

“As soon as I met Priscilla at Barnabas, I knew my life would change. I applied for the Hope Builders for Women program and was encouraged,” Gladys said. “I love the program! It opened my eyes to what I can do with my love of drawing and painting.”

Gladys now sells her hand-painted, terra cotta pot characters in the community and is grateful to Barnabas for the guidance.

“When I sold my first pair of pot characters, I knew I could do it,” Gladys said. “Getting the help to learn English was the start. Then, selling my pots was the answer I needed to make money. I’m also making new friends and even told my neighbor about Barnabas.”  

For more information about Barnabas’ Hope Builders for Women program, contact Priscilla Eljaiek at PEljaiek@barnabasnassau.org OR (904) 261-7000 ext. 104