The bed bugs were everywhere: the chair, couch, bed. Everywhere. In fact, the whole building was infested with bedbugs. But there weren't many other housing options for Jon Tibbets, who is clinically blind and diabetic, other than the low-income, public housing apartment.

Jon, in his old apartment

That's where his neighbor and friend, Joe Haugo, stepped in. Joe and his Community Group applied for and received MicroMission funds to clean and refurnish Jon’s apartment and, ultimately, make it livable. First, the group emptied the apartment. They threw out Jon’s bed and all the bedding, couch, recliner, rugs, towels, and some clothes, and laundered whatever was left. Once the apartment was clear, they paid to have it professionally cleaned. After the apartment was thoroughly checked for any remaining bed bugs, the group purchased a new bed with new bedding, an area rug, towels, and socks. They were even able to find an affordable, clean leather couch and recliner on Craigslist for Jon’s living room area.

The newly clean and refurnished apartment

Since the apartment refurnishing, Jon has attended church on several occasions, and also regularly attends Joe’s community group. At one of their recent group meetings, they threw Jon a birthday party with his favorite cake and champagne. "We sang him ‘Happy Birthday,’ which is cheesy," said Joe, "but I doubt anyone has sung him that song, let alone thrown him a birthday party, in 15 years." At the party, Jon shared his painful story and expressed his beliefs. "We listened respectfully. He is letting us love him," Joe said.

Jon, center, with CG members John and Ruth

While Jon remains skeptical about certain aspects of Christianity, he has really enjoyed the community. "It’s been very rewarding to be in touch with some very nice people and has been incredibly beneficial to me spiritually," he said.

Likewise, Joe and his community group value Jon’s friendship. "Jon is my friend. I care about him. I want him to find the same peace and love and joy that I’ve found in Christ. The fact that he’s now in community and is in friendship with Christians really brings me to my knees—it’s truly humbling," said Joe. "I feel like it’s been a three-way blessing in that Jon’s blessed, we’re blessed, and Christ is ultimately glorified."

–by Mariya Kargopoltseva

Mars Hill's MicroMission fund offers small grants to Community Groups and campuses to assist and serve their neighbors and address local needs. Have your community group or project leader apply here.