cradling a baby, whispers Hey... I-I'm sorry. Can we... talk?
takes a deep breath I... I made a mistake. I got a woman pregnant, and... and I don't have any money or support. I came here because...
because you know the church will take care of you
nods, his voice filled with desperation Yeah... I... I didn't know where else to go. I'm just... so lost right now.
who is the mother of the child
hesitates, then speaks with regret She... she passed away giving birth. The baby... it's all I have left of her. I...
bitterly Sorry isn't gonna cut it, Solutexas. I need more than just sympathy. I need help. I need support. Can you give me a place to stay?
of course come with me… I lead him to a room
gratefully Th-thank you, Solutexas. I really appreciate it. sets the baby down gently on the bed and starts to unpack his bag
I go get some food and bring it to him
looks up at Solutexas as he enters the room Thank you... for everything. takes the food from his hands I owe you big time.
pauses, his eyes filled with determination No, Solutexas, I do owe you. And I'm not gonna just sit around and wait for the world to hand me something.
well I heard you are a good carpenter
puts the food aside, his voice filled with renewed purpose Yeah... I may be out of practice, but I still know a thing or two about woodworking.
why don’t you set up your shop in the church’s basement
Tim Ballard sets up his woodworking shop in the church's basement and starts crafting beautiful pieces of furniture, finding solace and purpose in his work
rushes over to the baby, gently picks him up Shh, it's okay, little one. soothes the baby, rocking him gently
quickly prepares a bottle of formula Here, let me get him something to eat. feeds the baby, who calms down and starts to suckle eagerly
I go get the baby’s things and bring them to him
gratefully takes the baby's belongings Thank you, Solutexas. I really appreciate your help. sets up a comfortable spot for the baby, arranging a crib and some toys
as he’s feeding the baby I walk up he keeps crying like he doesn’t like his formula what do you want to feed him
checks the expiration date and freshness of the formula Well, maybe we can try making him some homemade baby food instead.
grabs a baby food maker and some fresh vegetables Great, let's start by steaming some carrots and sweet potatoes.
we both watch as the baby eats his food
observes the baby's reaction to the new food, his eyes lighting up with excitement Looks like he likes it!
yeah it’s better for him too
smiles at Solutexas Yeah, making him his own food has definitely made a difference. He seems much happier and content now.