From Police Officer to Street Ministry: How Elli’s House is Changing Lives
In 2016, Deb Ellinger left her position as a police officer to work with women and men involved in human trafficking, domestic violence, substance use, homelessness, and others who are at risk. Students at the High School Gathering have the opportunity to support them by making bracelets and cards for the men and women whom Ellinger and the volunteers of Elli’s House come in contact with as part of the outreach program.
“One of the things that people on the street really, really love is a picture drawn or colored by a student. Oftentimes, it reminds them of their children, whom they typically don’t have any contact or connection with anymore,” said Ellinger.
Meeting Physical and Spiritual Needs
Elli’s House helps approximately 200 people per week.
“We have a big white van and it’s just full of all major necessities. So, everybody gets food, everyone gets a hygiene kit, and then once a week, everyone will get clothes and a blanket. In the winter, they’ll get hats, gloves, handwarmers, scarves, and pretty much any kind of resource that they need we will have access to as well,” said Ellinger.
She said they have resources for things like drug treatment programs, homeless shelters, and even health insurance.
Additionally, Elli’s House has a residential program for women. The organization is celebrating 10 years of helping others in the community.
From Law Enforcement to Life Transformation
Elli’s House was founded after Ellinger left her job as a police officer.
“Part of my job at one point was arresting women who were living a life of prostitution,” said Ellinger. Rather than punishing them for the crimes, Ellinger decided she wanted to help them leave that lifestyle.
She said her background in law enforcement training, awareness, and the gifts God has given her come into play when she’s working to help those on the streets.
“I always felt like my most effective weapon was my mouth. I would never want to use my weapon if I didn’t have to, or get into a physical altercation if I didn’t have to, because I think we can talk our way in and out of just about anything depending on our demeanor and how we walk into a situation, and so I feel like I take that and use it on the street too,” said Ellinger.
Building Trust Through Long-Term Relationships
Those on the streets can live lives of isolation, but Ellinger said she develops meaningful relationships with many of those who rely on Elli’s House.
“We have so many beautiful relationships with people,” said Ellinge, noting that Elli’s House has been working with one local woman for 10 years and the woman recently texted Ellinger about the difference the organization makes in her life. “It was probably the kindest text ever. She said ‘I just want you to know that I appreciate you, and I think often that you’re the reason I’m still alive, because I should be dead.’”
During the High School Gathering, students have the opportunity to color and draw and assemble clay bead bracelets to go into the hygiene bags that the outreach team hands out daily. For more information on Elli’s House, visit the Elli’s House website or stop by the craft tables during the Gathering to make a card or bracelet.