Elaria’s journey began a year and two months ago when she was 15 years old. Her family made the life-changing decision to leave their home in Egypt, where they were persecuted for being Christians, and move to the United States. She knew it wouldn’t be easy, but she never imagined just how difficult it would be.
From the moment she arrived, everything felt unfamiliar. The streets, the people, and the culture were so different from what she had known. Even simple conversations became exhausting as she struggled with the language. Every attempt to connect with someone left her feeling like an outsider, as though she didn’t belong.
But the hardest part was the loneliness. Back home, Elaria was surrounded by family, friends, and her church—a community where she felt safe and loved. Here, she had no one. She would sit alone at school while others gathered with their friends. She would walk down the street, watching people laugh, talk, and live their lives, all while feeling invisible. There was no one to share her thoughts with, no one to ask for advice, and no one to comfort her when she felt like breaking down.
Many nights, Elaria cried herself to sleep, wondering if leaving Egypt was the biggest mistake of her life. She prayed, asking God why she felt so alone. She told herself to be strong, but deep down, she felt like she was drowning.
But God heard her prayers.
In the midst of her loneliness, He sent her an angel in the form of a young woman named Alia. Alia is part of the Greater Cleveland Youth for Christ team, serving with Campus Life, where she welcomed Elaria with open arms. She didn’t just talk to her—she truly saw her. Alia listened to her struggles and offered her a safe space to share her feelings through club, one-on-one appointments, and small group, reminding her that she was not alone.
Through Greater Cleveland Youth For Christ, Elaria found more than just a support system—she found a family. Campus Life helped her regain her confidence, reminded her of her worth, and most importantly, showed her that God had never left her side, even in her loneliest moments.
Today, Elaria is no longer that girl who felt invisible. She no longer walks through life alone. She stands stronger, more hopeful, and ready to extend the same love and support that was shown to her. Now, she boldly invites other students to Campus Life and stands firm in her faith, even when it means having fewer friends.
To all of you who support Greater Cleveland Youth For Christ, Elaria’s story is a testament to the impact of your generosity. Your prayers, words of encouragement, kindness, and unwavering support are directly changing lives in ways that words cannot fully capture. Elaria is living proof that your efforts and involvement make a difference.
Thank you for believing in this mission. Thank you for being the hands and feet of Christ. And thank you for reminding students like Elaria that they are never truly alone.
