Tree of Life Ministries, headquartered in Purcellville on Main Street, does several things under their five-branch model through food assistance, transitional housing, life skills classes, relief programs, and healthcare services. Among these initiatives, the transitional housing program stands out as a fundamental resource for individuals facing financial hardships. When Tree of Life introduced the program, their mission was to create a pathway for individuals and families striving for self-sufficiency and independence. The program helps fill this gap through financial and job coaching, mentoring, spiritual care, health coaching, and more. The ministry also extends housing opportunities to individuals with disabilities, an initiative that has been life-changing for its residents.

For Georgia Dougherty, one of the housing program’s residents, this opportunity has meant newfound independence. Georgia, who has Autism and is unable to drive, shared her story at Tree of Life’s first annual Ladies’ Luncheon in December. She expressed her gratitude about the program, saying, “Because of my disability, I can now walk to work, take care of my own house, cook in my own kitchen.” Living in Tree of Life’s housing has given her a sense of independence she never thought was possible.

Georgia first found out about Tree of Life through the Still Waters group on Facebook last year. Still Waters is one of Tree of Life’s ministries which serves individuals with disabilities. After attending some Zumba classes, a book club, and other events, she got to know Cindy Welsh, the program’s Relief Director, fairly well. One day Cindy was talking about Tree of Life’s housing and how they offered homes for a few individuals that had disabilities. Georgia never imagined something would open for her, but she got a call just a few weeks later, was told that a place was available, and moved in last September.

Tree of Life Ministries helps provide stability and independence for those in need by offering a “hand-up, not a handout.” Not only do residents have access to affordable housing, but they also have access to other programs through Tree of Life – food deliveries, social programs, healthcare, and other relief if there is a need.

At the December luncheon, Maisie Eastman also bravely shared her journey, without a dry eye in the audience. Born with Cerebral Palsy, a neurological condition that affects movement, muscle tone, speech, and cognition, Maisie faced many challenges from an early age. She told the audience she was diagnosed as a baby and was “born deaf, but, made myself hear anyway”. Through sheer determination and faith, she willed herself to hear—something most would consider impossible. It was this ambition that drove Maisie to conquer many challenges in life, including her biggest dream: going to college and graduating with a degree. After high school, Maisie attended Shepherd University in West Virginia and graduated with a degree in Early Childhood Education in 2023. Then, she did the unthinkable and moved into Tree of Life’s transitional housing along with Georgia. When asked about how it feels to live on her own, she told us, “I feel empowered and like I’ve gained independence in another area of my life.”

A few years ago, she embraced an exciting opportunity at View of Heaven Farm, where she now passionately teaches others the art of gardening, including planting seeds and harvesting them properly. This past summer, she celebrated a significant milestone by obtaining her driver’s license. While she is currently focusing on daytime driving, with faith, hope, and dedication, Maisie is poised to achieve anything she sets her mind to. These two young women are just a few of many who have gone through Tree of Life Ministries’ programs and achieved independence and self-sufficiency they may not have otherwise found. Tree of Life remains dedicated to serving the community by creating opportunities and changing lives every single day. Learn more at www.tolministries.org.