Written by Lauren Waters, Donor Services Manager.
When St. John’s Ministries launched the Lasting Change Program in April 2025, the goal was clear: provide meaningful, ongoing support to individuals transitioning from homelessness into stable housing. What wasn’t guaranteed was how quickly that vision would take hold or how deeply it would resonate with donors.
For John and Rae Uggla, it started with a simple moment.
After seeing a news story, the couple felt compelled to learn more. What they discovered led them to become the first donors to the Lasting Change Program, an early act of generosity that helped bring the initiative to life.
Since then, the program has grown beyond what anyone anticipated. With more than 100 participants already supported, the results have been both measurable and deeply meaningful.
“We have been blown away by how well the funds have been utilized in the Lasting Change Program,” John shared. “The success of the program has been way beyond anything we could’ve imagined.”
That impact became even more real during a recent conversation with St. John’s Ministries’ Executive Director, Jesse Brunette.
“When we spoke with Jesse to get an update, I asked how many participants had been housed,” John said. “I expected maybe 10 or 12. When he said 100, I just about fell out of my chair.”
For John and Rae, giving is rooted in both compassion and perspective.
John’s background as a long-time rental property owner has given him insight into the challenges many individuals face in maintaining housing, as well as the importance of having the right support systems in place. Together, they recognize that lasting stability requires more than just a place to live.
“Everyone needs help sometimes,” Rae said. “And we want to help where we can.”
Their generosity is also grounded in faith.
“It’s a God thing,” John shared. “Without Him being involved, we couldn’t be involved. It’s powerful.”
Rae agreed and added, “Even the name ‘Lasting Change’ is powerful.”
And for those considering taking the next step in donating and/or volunteering with St. John’s Ministries, John offers simple advice:
“Get involved and see it for yourself. Because when people experience it firsthand, they understand the need and want to be part of it.”
Through their generosity and belief in the mission, John and Rae have helped turn a vision into reality — one that continues to create stability, dignity, and lasting change for those who need it most.
Make a gift today and join John and Rae in supporting individuals as they transition to housing and stability as participants in the Lasting Change Program.
