‘SOBER HOUSE’ CONTROVERSY
To the editor:
It was with a heavy heart that I read the Sept. 17 article “Sober house rattles residents.” I personally know and work with Charles Valentine and I have seen firsthand the good work that he does in the lives of those he and his wife, Lisa, serve. All I could think when reading the article was, “They don’t know Charles.”
I certainly understand the desire of the residents of Kearny to feel safe, and to provide a safe haven for their children. As the mom of two small children, I understand this passionately and with vehemence. That is why I must write in support of Charles, Lisa and Valentine House. Charles has centered his life around doing the work of Jesus by helping the forgotten, the underserved and the broken. And who of us does not have a broken part in our lives? Who is not in need of some love, compassion, and a helping hand occasionally?
I implore you: Give Valentine House and the men who live there the chance you would hope to have yourself, or the chance you might hope for your child, your father or your brother. Because that’s who’s living there: someone’s son, someone’s father, someone’s brother.
Kerry Connelly
Community Involvement Coordinator
The LIFE Christian Church
West Orange
