Jerlin, Emily, and their son celebrate their big day with Lupe and Lupita Navar, pastors of their church.

Jerlin and Emily arrived at the shelter with only a few small bags of clothing and heavy hearts. They courageously shared that they could no longer make ends meet. Every dollar they had went toward one last night in a hotel, and when that money ran out, they were preparing to sleep on the streets with their 2-year-old son.

During their time at RMA San Fernando Valley, everything began to change. Jerlin and Emily committed fully to the program—completing parenting classes, financial literacy courses, and attending regular Bible studies. They chose to become part of a local church community, purchased their first vehicle, and began building savings for their future.

RMA SFV Director Josie Casarrubias said, “This young couple is among the hardest-working individuals we have had the privilege of serving. When challenges arise, they don’t give up. They push forward with determination, faith, and hope.”

As they grew in their faith, Jerlin and Emily felt a deep conviction to honor God with their lives and made the decision to get married. With no close family nearby and limited support, they humbly asked if they could hold their wedding ceremony at the shelter, surrounded by the very community that had walked alongside them during their hardest season. It was an honor to celebrate with them as their shelter family gathered to witness this beautiful milestone.

Today, Jerlin and Emily are also joyfully expecting a new baby. On their wedding day, they said, “We never expected that the Mission, Josie, and the entire team would change our lives the way they have. This place has become our safe space and our family.”

Their story is a powerful reminder that hope, healing, and new beginnings are possible when love, faith, and community come together.