Deborah Johnson

Irma's Place Wish List ➔

What led me to become a Cottage Manager was my love for God and His children. I was in a season of waiting, anticipating the next thing God had for me. When I learned about this incredible opportunity to be used by Him to help mothers and their children feel loved, safe, and secure, I knew this was the new thing He had prepared. I was all in.

I've now served as a Cottage Manager for 9 years. Over the years, many have come through the doors of Irma's Cottage and many remain a part of my life. Once you become someone these mothers and children can trust, someone they feel safe with, you become part of their story forever.

Before this, I was involved in women's prison ministry offering support that extended beyond their time in jail. We helped families, made sure children had gifts for Christmas, and walked alongside moms as they rebuilt their lives after incarceration. I've also served families in crisis within the church. I understand the challenges life can bring, but I also know that God is a God of restoration.

There are so many beautiful stories of transformation. I've witnessed God's hand move in miraculous ways in the lives of the mothers and children at Irma's Cottage. The greatest miracle of all is always salvation—seeing a mom or child give their heart and life to Christ. I've seen moms earn their HiSET, purchase a car, enroll in college, buy their first home, and even pay a year of rent in advance. Many leave here with enough savings to truly begin again.

I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to be a part of such a life-giving ministry. I get to use my own journey—everything God has healed in me—to walk alongside these families. I offer hope and healing, praying that each mother experiences full restoration. I often tell them: in many ways, I am more like them than I'm not. But what they see now is the healed and restored me. This is what God can do when we allow His love to work in our lives.

To every child, I say: You are a child of God. Never forget that. He has a perfect plan for your life. Trust Him always. And if you ever need me, I will be here. I love you.

I hope my time here has made a difference that lasts into eternity. My prayer is that every mother and child who passes through these doors knows who they are in Christ—and believes they can do anything they set their heart to. I hope a foundation of overcoming is laid deep in their hearts.

Many former residents still reach out. When someone knows they can trust you—with the good, the bad, or when they simply need advice or a listening ear—they stay connected. I'm close to many of them. For those who've never truly had a family, trust means everything. Once they know your love is real, they'll always know you're someone they can call. Sometimes it's just to catch up. Sometimes, they just need a soft, safe place to land.