When Oscar Campos first came to Tree of Life, giving back to the community was the last thing on his mind. He was in crisis—recovering from a medical emergency that left him struggling to afford rent and cover essentials. In his time of need, Oscar turned to his church, Iglesia Biblica Bautista Emanuel (IBBE), for help. While they offered spiritual support and did what they could financially, the need was greater than they could meet alone. That’s when IBBE reached out to Tree of Life. 

Together, we partnered to help Oscar get back on his feet. Tree of Life provided the financial relief he needed to stay in his home, while IBBE surrounded him with spiritual care and community. This partnership was life changing. 

Not long after, Oscar began volunteering with Tree of Life. He offered translation services, prayer, and encouragement at our recent dental event for uninsured children. Grateful for the support he received, Oscar shared, “I thank God for Tree of Life. Because of their help, I was able to pay my $850 rent and keep a roof over my head. Without their support, I wouldn’t be able to manage it. Their assistance was a huge blessing, especially since I wasn’t working at the time. To sponsors, I want to say: please continue to support this incredible organization. It truly helps the right people in their time of need.” 

At Tree of Life, our mission is to reach out to the poor and needy in our community with the love of Jesus Christ. We offer a “hand up” through five ministry branches—Food, Lifeskills, Shelter, Healthcare, and Relief. While we respond to urgent needs, our greater hope is to see lasting transformation. And that transformation is most powerful when the wider church community joins us in offering practical assistance, spiritual care, and relationship. 

In Oscar’s case, Tree of Life served as a bridge—connecting IBBE to a broader network of churches and resources. That connection continued at our dental clinic last year, where we invited local families in need to receive free cleanings for their children. Hosted by IBBE and Crossroads Baptist Church, the event also offered prayer and fellowship. These churches were able to build relationships with families they might never have reached otherwise. 

Because the event took place just before the school year began, we also saw the need for school supplies and backpacks. Tree of Life partnered with McLean Bible Church in Loudoun to fund and assemble backpacks, which were then distributed through Spanish-speaking congregations like Grace Covenant Church in Sterling and IBBE. These churches used the opportunity to invite families to attend services and connect with their community of faith. 

Oscar played a key role in this outreach. “I helped Spanish-speakers fill out the necessary information so they could be part of the event,” he told us, “Including names, kids’ ages, and phone numbers so we could call them when their backpacks were ready.” 

As a result of these efforts, five children who received dental care and backpacks also attended Vacation Bible School—an inspiring example of how practical support can open the door to spiritual growth and connection. 

As Tree of Life continues to expand our impact across Loudoun and beyond, the partnership of local churches is essential. Together, we can be a bridge and link those in need with hope, help, and the love of Jesus Christ.