Dec Newsletter 2024

As we approach the end of another year at The Rock at Noonday, my heart is overwhelmed with gratitude for each of you. Your generosity, prayers, and unwavering support have been a lifeline to many in our community. Because of your love and care, this ministry has restored dignity, renewed hope, and transformed lives in ways that reflect God’s amazing grace.

Last week, a client shared a story I will carry in my heart for years. She and her husband, a veteran, have been homeless for over two years. They’ve faced unimaginable challenges, yet through it all, they held on to hope. Thanks to the services available at The Rock at Noonday—made possible through your generosity—they have secured housing and will move into their new home on December 3, 2024.

As she told me this news, tears of joy filled her eyes. For the first time in years, she and her husband have a safe place to call home. Even more, they now have the stability needed to begin the process of reuniting with their son, who has been in foster care.

Hearing her story, I was reminded of how many families remain on the streets, separated and struggling, simply because they lack a helping hand. This family’s journey is a powerful testament to the impact we can have when we come together to provide not just resources but hope and opportunity.

Their story also paints a beautiful picture of God’s grace. Just as we can do nothing to earn His love, the individuals and families we serve often cannot overcome homelessness alone. Yet through His grace—and through the care and compassion of this community—lives are being restored. What a privilege it is to reflect that grace and love in the work we do every day.

As we enter this Christmas season, we are reminded that it is truly a time of hope. We celebrate the birth of Jesus, who came into this world to bring new life and light to the darkness. That same light shines in the stories of transformation we see at The Rock: in the smiles of those who feel seen and valued, the tears of gratitude from those given a second chance, and the laughter of children who now have a safe space to play and grow.

To our faithful donors, volunteers, and supporters, thank you. Because of you, families are finding homes, individuals are rediscovering their worth, and our community is growing stronger. Your compassion and generosity make stories like this possible.

On behalf of everyone at The Rock at Noonday, thank you for walking alongside us. May this Christmas season fill you and your loved ones with joy, peace, and the unshakable hope that comes from knowing Christ, the light of the world.

With heartfelt gratitude and blessings,

Ricardo Devine
Executive Director
The Rock at Noonday

Nov Newsletter 2024

I hope this letter finds you well. As we enter a season of new beginnings and exciting transformations, I’m thrilled to share some updates about the ongoing developments here at The Rock at Noonday. Your partnership and support have paved the way for these advancements, each of which brings us closer to creating a space that can comprehensively serve the needs of our community.

We recently initiated the first phase of our facility improvements by ordering new office pods, which we plan to install by mid-November. These office pods will serve as private, dedicated spaces where service providers can meet with our clients. Designed with noise-canceling technology, these pods ensure that providers and clients can communicate without distractions, promoting a secure and respectful environment for discussions on everything from health services to personal counseling. By offering a space where clients can feel comfortable and protected, we aim to strengthen the services we offer to individuals seeking guidance and support.

This initiative is just the beginning of our long-term vision to establish The Rock at Noonday as a comprehensive hub for a variety of services, accessible to all who need them. We’ve also been blessed by an unexpected opportunity to further enhance our facility’s impact and sustainability. Just recently, we were awarded a grant to purchase solar panels, which will allow The Rock to become more energy-efficient. Not only will this help us reduce our environmental footprint, but it will also generate significant cost savings. Every dollar saved through this initiative will be reinvested into our programs, allowing us to continue growing and serving the community more effectively. We are hoping to complete the installation of these solar panels by the end of the year.

Reflecting on these developments, I am reminded of the importance of community and how none of this would be possible without each of you. Your unwavering support, whether through prayer, volunteering, or financial contributions, is what makes The Rock at Noonday a beacon of hope for so many in need. Together, we are building a future where the hurting and less fortunate are not only seen and supported but are empowered to rebuild their lives.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to walking alongside our neighbors, sharing God’s love, and creating a space where every person feels valued and supported. Thank you for your dedication to our mission and for helping us carry out this life-changing work. We can’t wait to share more updates with you soon as these projects progress.

 With heartfelt gratitude,

Ricardo Devine
Executive Director
The Rock at Noonday

May Newsletter

I hope this message finds you well. Today, I want to share a story that illustrates the impact your support has on the lives of families who face daily uncertainties despite having a roof over their heads.

Many believe that providing housing is the ultimate solution to the crisis we see in our communities. While securing a home is undoubtedly a critical step, the journey doesn't end there. The truth is, housing alone isn't enough for many families who need ongoing support to manage their new responsibilities — from paying rent to covering utility bills and more.

At The Rock at Noonday, we've extended our support beyond our primary goals to assist families who might otherwise slip through the cracks. Thanks to our food pantry and financial assistance programs, we can offer a helping hand to those in dire need. While these services may not be our primary focus, they are crucial in preventing families from falling back into homelessness.

One touching testament to the difference your generosity makes came from a young girl, just nine years old. She wrote to us expressing her gratitude: "Thank you for helping our family. We are very grateful." This simple message highlights the relief and hope that your contributions bring to families struggling to make ends meet. Moments like these remind us of our personal connection with the families we support and the profound impact we can make in their lives.

As someone who might have experienced living paycheck to paycheck, you understand the significance of stability. Your continued support allows us to provide not just housing but the comprehensive care needed to maintain it. You are helping to break the cycle of homelessness, one family at a time.

On behalf of the families you've aided, especially the young girl and her mother, I extend a heartfelt thank you. Your prayers, volunteering, and donations are making a tangible difference in their lives.

Thank you for being a part of this crucial mission!

Warm regards,

Ricardo Devine 
Executive Director 
The Rock at Noonday

March Newsletter

I hope this letter finds you well. Today, I want to share some insights into the individuals who enter The Rock at Noonday and underscore the significance of understanding the diverse demographics we serve.

At the Rock, our doors are open wide, welcoming all who seek essential services and the opportunity to hear the Gospel. Our community encompasses a rich array of backgrounds and life experiences. Each person brings a unique story and journey from Cuba to Africa, the Middle East, and all corners of America.

Allow me to share a story that deeply resonated with me recently. Amidst our diverse community, there was an individual who, at first glance, appeared to belong here yet was from Lebanon. Having previously worked with refugees from the Middle East, I consider it a blessing to have encountered him. Listening to his story and struggles, I couldn't help but be grateful for the opportunity to connect with him.

As our conversation unfolded, we delved into matters of faith and purpose. As a Muslim, he inquired about the driving force behind the work I do. With sincerity, I shared that my calling stems from Christ's commandment to love and serve the hurting in our community. His response was one of gratitude, acknowledging the genuine care exhibited by Christians like us. Despite differing beliefs, he recognized the universal language of compassion and service.

Reflecting on this encounter, I invite you to consider the profound impact of serving others. Each interaction presents a chance to listen, understand, and extend care to individuals yearning to share their stories. It's a reminder that our actions, no matter how small, ripple outward, bringing hope to those who may feel forgotten or marginalized.

To all who generously give their time, prayers, and resources month after month, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your support enables us to facilitate conversations that ignite hope in the hearts of many. You are the catalysts for change, the beacons of light in a world sometimes overshadowed by darkness.

In closing, let us continue to embrace the hurting, to listen intently, and to extend compassion without reservation. Together, we can be instruments of transformation, spreading love and hope to all who cross our paths.

Sincerely,

Ricardo Devine
Executive Director
The Rock at Noonday

END OF THE YEAR

As we bid farewell to 2023, we can't help but feel immense gratitude for the incredible journey we've shared together. Your unwavering support, prayers, and dedication have allowed us to make a significant impact on the lives of those in need in our Albuquerque community.

Here are some numbers that tell the story of our collective efforts:

Over 85,000 Plates Served: Through your generosity, we have provided nourishment and hope by serving over 85,000 plates of food to the unhoused and less fortunate in our community. This milestone represents not just meals but moments of connection and compassion that have made a lasting impact on those who need it most.

7 Individuals and Families Housed: In 2023, we've assisted seven individuals and families in finding stable housing. Your prayers and support have helped transform lives, offering a fresh start and the promise of a brighter future.

Comprehensive Support Services: Beyond meals and housing, your contributions have enabled us to offer a range of essential services, including clothing, showers, access to mail, and computer lab facilities. These resources empower individuals to take crucial steps toward self-sufficiency, such as applying for jobs and accessing other essential services.

As we reflect on these achievements, we want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has made this year a success. Whether through prayer, volunteering your time, or giving resources, you have made a tangible difference in the lives of those facing hardships.

Looking ahead to 2024, we invite you to continue this incredible journey with us. Let's join forces once again to make an even greater impact on the lives of individuals and families in Albuquerque. Your ongoing support is the driving force behind our mission, and we are excited to see the positive change we can create together.

Thank you for being a beacon of hope and compassion. May the coming year bring new opportunities for growth, transformation, and shared blessings.

Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a Happy New Year!

Ricardo Devine
Executive Director

A Season of Giving

We hope this message finds you well. We are excited to share the success of the recent event hosted at The Rock at Noonday on December 4, 2023, in support of Crossroads for Women.

Thanks to your generosity and the support of partners like the US Eagle Federal Credit Union, the event was nothing short of heartwarming. Together, we made a significant impact by providing 40 gifts for children, along with the extra joy of mothers handpicking special treats for their little ones. The smiles on their faces were truly priceless.

The atmosphere was filled with warmth and gratitude as we also had the pleasure of treating the mothers to a delicious meal from Rudy's Barbeque. Your support and the collective effort of our sponsors, donors, and volunteers turned this into a festive celebration that created lasting memories for everyone involved.

It's important to recognize that none of this would have been possible without your contribution. Your belief in our cause and your willingness to make a difference in the lives of these children and women is truly inspiring.

As we bask in the success of this event, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to you and all the wonderful individuals and organizations who played a vital role in making it happen.

Your generosity can make a lasting impact on the lives of these children, women, and others facing challenging circumstances in our community. Your gift, no matter the size, has the power to bring smiles and joy to those who need it most.

Please consider making an end-of-year gift to help us continue our ongoing mission to spread love and support. Together, we can make a difference that resonates far beyond this holiday season.

Thank you for being a vital part of our community and for making the world a brighter place.

Warm regards,

Ricardo Devine
Executive Director

Dec 2023 Newsletter

I hope this letter finds you well. As we reflect on the year, I am excited to share a story that illustrates the impact of compassion and hope—qualities you have consistently championed through your generous support of The Rock at Noonday.

In the heart of Albuquerque, where broken families face trials and rival gangs tighten their grip, two lives intersected at a critical crossroads—within the welcoming walls of The Rock at Noonday. More than just a refuge for food and shelter, this sanctuary has become a haven for healing and new beginnings.

Imagine two men, once bitter enemies, entangled in the destructive web of rival gangs. Their journeys were marked by despair, leading them towards a dark path that threatened incarceration. However, fate intervened, and a remarkable transformation began to unfold.

One of these men found solace and renewal by placing his trust in Christ, guided by a newfound faith that allowed him to emerge from the shadows of his past. Simultaneously, upon release from jail, the other took steps towards change, fueled by a resolute commitment to rebuild his life. Now, as they meet at The Rock at Noonday, these two men no longer see enemies but friends bound by shared experiences of redemption and second chances.

The Rock at Noonday stands as a testament to the belief that every person, regardless of background, seeks hope—a belief dear to us and one that your support has helped us nurture. Your unwavering commitment to breaking down walls of hate and fostering an environment of compassion and love has transformed The Rock at Noonday into a beacon of positive change. Through your support, we have witnessed the building of bridges between individuals who once harbored animosity towards each other.

The need to continue this transformative work is pressing, and we invite you to be part of the solution. As we approach the year's end, we ask you to consider a meaningful opportunity for year-end giving. Your reflection on the impact your assistance can make is pivotal. The Rock at Noonday is dedicated to helping individuals and families overcome challenges, providing sustenance, and establishing a foundation for lasting change.

Your continued support will empower us to deliver vital resources to a community in need, ensuring that The Rock at Noonday remains a haven for those seeking hope and healing. Together, we can be the catalyst for change, impacting the lives of those who have found solace and redemption within these transformative walls.

Thank you for being an integral part of our mission and helping us make a tangible difference.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Ricardo Devine
Executive Director

Nov 2023 Newsletter

I hope this newsletter finds you well. Today, I like to share a story that illustrates the power of love, compassion, and faith in the face of despair.

Meet Zack, a young man who recently found himself at a crossroads in life. When Zack first walked through our doors, he was without shoes, disheveled, and carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. It was evident that he had been going through some incredibly tough days and needed someone to reach out and offer a helping hand.

As Zack and I sat down in my office, a conversation began. Zack opened up about his struggles, revealing that he had been battling suicidal thoughts for the past few days. He even shared a chilling encounter from a few nights ago when he had tried to step in front of a moving car. The reason for his despair? He had recently relapsed into addiction and was consumed by guilt and self-loathing. Zack confided that he felt utterly alone, believing that no one in his life cared about his well-being. In that vulnerable moment, I assured Zack that The Rock was here for him, offering a refuge of safety and compassion. Tears streamed down Zack's face as he expressed his gratitude for having someone willing to listen and care.

I shared the Gospel with Zack. I reminded him that, no matter what, when we place our trust in the Lord, we are never truly alone. God walks beside us in our darkest hours, providing strength and guidance. Even in the depths of despair, there is a flicker of hope that can light our way.

As the conversation continued, Zack confessed that he had always been on the fence about Christianity. He had never truly felt loved or accepted. I shared the transformative truth that Christ's love is all-encompassing, unyielding, and unconditional. It is a love that fills the void in our hearts and brings purpose to our lives.

In the closing moments of the discussion, I encouraged Zack to consider surrendering his life to Christ, making Him his Lord and Savior. It was a profound moment of spiritual connection and healing, and Zack left our center that day with a newfound glimmer of hope in his eyes.

This encounter serves as a reminder of the incredible impact your support has on individuals like Zack. Your donations and prayers enable us to be a beacon of hope for those who have lost their way, providing a safe haven where they can experience love, compassion, and the transformative power of the Gospel.

As we continue our mission to help people find solid ground when they feel on the edge, we are deeply grateful for each and every one of you. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Ricardo Devine

Executive Director