SAN BENITO — It’s about time to run for the single mothers of the Valley.
Judah’s House, a shelter home for women and their children, will host its first fundraiser 5K Run/Walk Saturday, May 19.
Residents interested in taking part in the 5K can enter their children in the One-Mile Fun Run for free where a breakfast buffet will be provided.
Pastor and director of Judah’s House Rose Mary Loya opened the shelter in January after witnessing the need during her work with the ministry.
“I had had this vision in my heart for 15 years,” Loya said.
Loya stopped by the San Benito Chamber of Commerce coffee series to discuss the shelter and its upcoming event.
Loya has been working with her husband for the past two decades ministering at Community Cross Church.
After witnessing what some women were going through, she felt a need to open a shelter and in January, Judah’s House opened its doors to the public.
“It was very fulfilling watching this dream come true,” Loya said.
What the shelter does
The shelter provides a temporary safe place for women and their children to get back on their feet and offers counseling and transportation for the women to run errands.
Judah’s House was named after Loya’s child who she lost almost 20 years ago.
She said the name also means “breakthrough” which is what she hopes her clients have during their stay at the center.
With 14 bedrooms, six bathrooms, three kitchens and plenty of living and dining space, Loya said she has the room to help people.
Since opening its doors, the home has seen less than 10 clients but Loya hopes she can spread the word and help the women of the Valley.
The shelter does not provide housing for families in domestic violence situations.
However, Loya said there are plans to eventually open to that population once she has found a secure and private location for those clients.
Until then, Loya refers those clients to the Family Crisis Center in Harlingen and similar shelters.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Judah’s House Race to Embrace 5K Run & Walk
WHEN: Saturday, May 19 at 7 a.m.
WHERE: Cross Church, 901 W. Expressway 83, San Benito
COST: Early Bird Registration is $15 until May 12
Late Registration is $25
HOW: To register visit judahshouse.ticketspice.com
In need of assistance? Contact the Judah’s House Hotline at (956) 626- 0414
