We Fight Monsters
Amber Lynn Svihl Memorial
ONE TIME DONATION
Amber Lynn Svihl died with three years clean. Endocarditis. For anybody who doesn't know what that is - it's what years of IV drug use does to your heart valves, and it does NOT care that you quit.
She did everything right. She got clean. She stayed clean. She raised her babies.
And the dope came back and collected anyway.
Amber died six years to the DAY after her husband died. He was incarcerated. He was clean too. Same condition. The exact same condition.
Three kids. Both parents gone. Same disease, same date, six years apart.
The picture is Amber walking one of her babies to the school bus. That's who she was. Not a statistic, not a cautionary tale, not a "former addict". A mama getting her kid on the bus.
You need to know something else about this family.
Her brother Joe drove down from Detroit on his own dime to paint Sparrow House for us. Out of his own pocket. Nobody asked him to. He showed up, he worked, he went home. Never mentioned his family was struggling. Never asked us for a thing.
That's the kind of people we are talking about here. Salt of the earth.
Their mother is raising all three grandchildren now. She can barely afford to feed them. And she just got handed a $5,000 bill for a cremation funeral - no fancy casket, no big service, just the bare minimum it costs in this country to lay your daughter to rest.
She can't pay it. Obviously she can't pay it.
So we are going to pay it.
And then we are going to keep going, because those three kids are going to need a whole lot more than a settled funeral bill. Groceries. Clothes. School. Something put away for when they're grown and their mama isn't here to help them start.
I say all that to say this.
Clean time is not a receipt. It doesn't erase the debt - it just changes who ends up paying it. Amber paid hers with her life, six years after her husband paid his. Those three kids are paying the rest of it right now, and they never touched a thing.
That's why we chase people so hard out here. We're not trying to get folks a chip and a pat on the back. We're trying to reach them before their hearts run out of road.
Help us take care of Amber's babies
I love y'all.
Nobody is coming. It is up to us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does donating to WFM operations impact individuals and communities?
Donations directly support our initiatives, aiding in recovery, providing safe housing, educational programs, and community revitalization. Each operation targets specific needs, ensuring impactful support where it's most needed
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, as a registered 501(c)(3) organization, all donations to WFM are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
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How can I support Operation BuyBackTheBlock and what impact does my support have?
You can support Operation BuyBackTheBlock by donating directly to the initiative, which helps transform neglected neighborhoods into vibrant communities and provides safe homes for veterans and trafficking survivors. Additionally, purchasing merchandise related to BuyBackTheBlock contributes to funding these crucial projects. Your support aids in the physical and social reconstruction of communities, ensuring a future filled with opportunity and safety for its residents.
What is Operation Make The Hood Great Again and how can I contribute?
Operation Make The Hood Great Again focuses on bringing holiday cheer and support to underprivileged neighborhoods. You can contribute by donating to fund holiday events, health support, and gift distribution. Buying themed merchandise also supports this cause. Your contributions spread joy and unity, directly impacting communities with much-needed festive spirit and resources.
How does supporting Operation Polaris & Southern Star help and what are my options for involvement?
Your support for Operation Polaris & Southern Star aids children shadowed by adversity and women ensnared by trafficking. Donations fund mentorship programs and provide essential aid, while purchasing related merchandise raises awareness and funds. By contributing, you empower individuals with the resources they need to overcome challenges and build safer, hopeful futures.
What can I do to assist Operation Sparrow and what does the operation aim to achieve?
Operation Sparrow aims to offer shelters and recovery programs for trafficking survivors. You can assist by making donations that help build and maintain these sanctuaries of healing. Additionally, supporting the operation through the purchase of Sparrow-themed merchandise aids in funding and raising awareness for these critical efforts. Your support fosters environments where survivors can heal and regain their strength.
How can I get involved with Operation Margaritaville, and what is the operation’s goal?
Operation Margaritaville seeks to provide care and facilities for disabled survivors. You can get involved by donating to the operation, which helps fund care facilities and support services. Purchasing Margaritaville-related merchandise also contributes to this cause. Your involvement ensures disabled survivors receive the necessary aid for a dignified and independent life.
What is the purpose of Operation Initium, and how can I support it?
Operation Initium helps individuals in inner cities start anew with educational and job training programs. Support this transformational initiative by donating to fund these life-changing programs or by buying Initium-themed merchandise. Your support reduces recidivism, inspires change, and assists individuals in paving a new path toward a hopeful future.
How does Operation Procyon assist families, and what are the ways to support this operation?
Operation Procyon provides support to families in need, guiding them towards stability and unity. You can support this mission by donating, which aids in the creation of stable environments for these families, or by purchasing Procyon-themed merchandise, which helps fund and promote the operation. Your contributions light up the lives of families, offering them a guiding star towards a brighter future.