Belong Week: Sharon’s Story
Welcome to “Belong” Week at KCB! This week, I got to sit down with Sharon Cage, a 64-year-old Bellflower senior who’s a straight-up gift to our Community Center. If you know Sharon, you know she’s always chatting, always laughing, and always crocheting something special. While we talked, she whipped up a little headphone case with a shoulder strap for me.. just because. That’s Sharon.. kind, vibrant, and full of joy. Her story’s a beautiful picture of finding a place where you’re truly loved, and it’s an honor to honor her through this story.
Three years ago, Sharon spotted a flyer for KCB and decided to check it out. “I walked in, and everybody was so welcoming,” she said. “I asked for help, and that’s how it all started.” That first step was the beginning of everything changing for her. Sharon stretches her monthly Social Security check to cover the basics.. staying at a local hotel half the month where she gets senior deals and feels respected, and the other half watching over her grandkids. But that back and forth leaves her with little to cover other basics. “I love my life, but it is hard. I’m thankful for places like KCB cause you help me with what I need. Hygiene stuff, my mail, clothes, shoes, snacks, water, all of that, it’s a lifesaver. My check don’t go far, and KCB’s got my back. It feels like home.”
Sharon’s life has had its share of highs and lows. Growing up, she had some golden moments. “I was the first with a color TV!” she said, her eyes lighting up. “Got a 25-inch one for Christmas and felt like royalty!” She married young at 18, but it unfortunately ended after five years. After that, she poured her heart and soul into raising her kids, doing all she could to give them a good life. But when they grew up and moved out, things started to get tough. “I was alone and couldn’t keep up with rent,” she shared. “Couldn’t work no more.” You see, Sharon had worked hard as a nurse and security guard since she was 16 years old, but in her mid-50s, leg problems and high blood pressure forced her to stop. Surgery wasn’t an option, so now she gets around with a wheelchair. A heart attack three years back hit her hard, and she knew she didn’t want to.. she couldn’t.. be alone anymore. With rent climbing, she even sold her trailer to stay afloat.. Now, she keeps things as simple as possible, focusing on bills, food, and time with her family.
For Sharon, belonging means “feeling cared for with folks who got your back, and I found that at KCB, no doubt. Ain’t never had a bad day here,” she said with a smile. “Every visit, I get a big welcome. Even when you’re not here, Javvy, whoever’s here treats me like family. Nobody shuts me out.” Whether she’s picking up a hygiene kit, her mail, or just taking a break from the heat, Sharon knows she’s loved and valued.
These days, Sharon’s living life on her terms.. joining senior events in different cities, spending time with her kids (her biggest blessing, she says), and keeping those crochet needles busy. You’ll find her at the Community Center, crafting beanies, blankets, or hats, her bright spirit lifting everyone around. She gave up driving when her legs started acting up.. didn’t want to risk hurting herself or anyone else.. but buses, trains, and Lyft keep her on the move. “I’m good with my life,” she said, flashing a big grin. “I belong.. and I’m proud to be part of KCB.”
When I asked her for advice for other neighbors in tough spots, Sharon got real: “Don’t be too proud to ask for help. You miss out on what somebody else could gain from helping you. Don’t let life break your spirit.. you take it one day at a time. Keep your head straight, and you’ll make it. I’m 64, in a wheelchair. If I can ask, anybody can.”
Her faith is her foundation. Raised by what she calls “good Christian folks,” Sharon learned to pray early. “Since I was 5, my mom was on her knees saying the Lord’s Prayer,” she shared. Now, she finds peace watching YouTube, following along with Bible narrators and pastors. That faith keeps her strong, and she reminded me of Psalm 46:1, which says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Sharon’s life shows that truth.. through every challenge, God’s been her strength, and KCB’s been His hands and feet, reminding her she’s never alone.
To everyone who supports KCB, Sharon’s got a big message: “THANK YOU.. for caring enough to give, especially for seniors like me. Life can hit hard, and your help means the world. KCB’s opened doors I couldn’t have opened myself.”
Sharon’s story is why we keep at it. She’s proof that belonging can change how you see everything, that God moves through people who show up. “I did my mission,” she said. “Raised my kids and all that, and this wheelchair.. it ain’t holding me back.” That’s the kind of fire that keeps us going.
So, let’s keep Sharon in our prayers.. for her strength, her joy, and her place in our family. Pray for KCB, the Community Center, and every neighbor searching for a place to belong. Your support.. your prayers, your giving.. it’s what makes these stories possible. It’s the Holy Spirit at work, and we’re blessed to be part of it. If you’re moved to help neighbors like Sharon, check out our giving page and join us in showing up for our community.
We love you Sharon!
Until next time..
