News &amp; Blogs

Partner Spotlight: New Hope Christian Fellowship

August 17, 2026 | By Charita |

In a world filled with countless worthy causes, aligning with a ministry that shares your deep love for God’s Word is a powerful blessing. In this blog, we’re spotlighting a valued church partner of The S.A.L.T. Connection. From their initial meeting with founder Charita Howard to watching local women and families grow tremendously in faith, learn what inspired them to step up—and why they believe our mission to teach Scripture and pour into others is vital for Grayson County and beyond.

With so many organizations you could partner with, how does supporting a Christ-centered ministry like ours align with your personal faith and values?

We support this ministry because of the nonprofit’s sincere desire to teach the word of God. We both set our ministry values on loving God’s people and making sure they understand his word.

How do you feel your partnership helps us create a lasting legacy for the women and families served by our ministry?

Our partnership gives us a chance to further the word of God from different saltshakers. We are so blessed to have witnessed several women from the Grayson County area to grow tremendously and been a blessing to others.

As our partner, what is your biggest hope or prayer for the future of The S.A.L.T. Connection?

Our prayer is that this ministry continues to grow and keep moving so the fields are never oversalted.

How did you first discover The S.A.L.T. Connection, and what was it about our mission to “pour into others” that resonated with you?

We were introduced to the nonprofit by sister Charita Howard. She had such a zeal for the vision God had given her our hearts were overwhelmed. We were totally sold on the idea of more sincere teaching of God’s word.

For someone on the fence about getting involved with The S.A.L.T. Connection, what is the one thing you want them to know about the heart of this organization?

We feel the heart of this organization is about extending the Kingdom of God by making sure his people do not lack knowledge.

Interested in becoming one of our partners to help further our mission?

PARTNER TODAY

Close-up of a woman praying, conveying a sense of peace and faith.

17 Aug

By Lynnette Burr-Lee

Prayer: How Do You Approach It—By Invitation, Obligation or Both?

August 17, 2026 | By Lynnette Burr-Lee |

The words “invitation” and “obligation” prompted me to take an honest look at my own prayer life.

There was a season when things were going well, and I must admit that I prayed more out of obligation than relationship. As a child, I was taught to pray because that was what was expected. As an adult, I would become so busy that days would pass without talking to God. Then guilt would remind me that I hadn’t prayed, and I would stop—not because I longed to be with Him, but because I felt I should.

As I matured in my faith, the Holy Spirit illuminated the verse below and I realized God wasn’t demanding my attention, he was inviting me into His presence.

“Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him now while he is near.” (Isaiah 55:6 (NLT)

A redheaded woman in deep prayer, leaning on a church pew in a serene atmosphere.

Then life changed. During one of the most difficult seasons of my life, I found myself alone, wondering how I would make it through. In that place, God gently invited me to commune with Him. The Holy Spirit led me to Hebrews 4:16(NLT):

“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”

What a beautiful invitation! I discovered that prayer is not about checking a box or fulfilling a duty. It is about building a relationship with our loving Father.

Today, I still believe obedience matters, but my prayer life is no longer motivated by guilt. It is motivated by love. Prayer is simply a conversation with God—a dialogue that draws us closer to His heart and aligns our hearts with His.

How can we truly love someone without getting to know them? And how can we know God without spending time in His presence?

As you reflect on your own prayer life, ask yourself: Do I approach prayer by invitation, obligation, or both?

You do not have to seek His presence alone. Our ministry brings women together to cultivate a lifestyle of love-driven prayer. Through our community, we share our conversations with God, deepen our relationship with Him, and lift each other up. Let’s accept His invitation together and align our hearts as one.

20 Jul

Donor Spotlight: Arianna Jones

July 20, 2026 | By Charita |

For one faithful supporter of The S.A.L.T. Connection—whose aunt founded the ministry—giving is far more than a donation; it is an eternal investment in Kingdom discipleship. In this month’s Donor Spotlight, Arianna Jones – a faithful monthly donor of our organization – shares her thoughts on the impact of faithful stewardship and her prayers for the future of the ministry.

With so many places and options to give, how does supporting a Christ-centered ministry like ours align with your personal faith and values?

Supporting The S.A.L.T. Connection is an investment in the Kingdom. I believe real transformation begins with God’s Word, and this ministry equips women to know Scripture, apply it, and then pour into others. That aligns with my heart because I’ve experienced how God uses His Word to heal, strengthen, and restore us. I want to support a ministry that doesn’t just inspire women—it disciples them.

How do you feel your financial support helps create a lasting legacy for the women and families served by our ministry?

I believe every monthly gift, no matter the amount, becomes part of something much bigger than itself. When a woman is discipled, it impacts her marriage, her children, her friendships, and future generations. My prayer is that my support helps make it possible for more women to encounter Jesus deeply, become rooted in His Word, and then go out and disciple others. That’s the kind of legacy that lasts forever.

As a donor, what is your biggest hope or prayer for the future of The S.A.L.T. Connection?

My prayer is that God continues to expand this ministry far beyond what we can imagine. I hope it reaches women from every background and every season of life, raising up generations of faithful disciples who know God’s Word and boldly live it out. I pray that every decision remains centered on Christ and that the ministry continues to bear fruit that glorifies Him.

How did you first discover The S.A.L.T. Connection, and what was it about our mission to “pour into others” that resonated with you?

I first discovered The S.A.L.T. Connection through my aunt, who founded the ministry. Going through the S.A.L.T. class myself gave me a greater appreciation for what biblical discipleship truly looks like. What resonated with me most was the idea that we can’t effectively pour into others unless we’ve first allowed God to pour into us through His Word. That truth has stayed with me, and it’s a reminder that healthy disciples make healthy disciples.

For someone on the fence about getting involved or donating to The S.A.L.T. Connection, what is the one thing you want them to know about the heart of this organization?

I would want them to know that The S.A.L.T. Connection genuinely cares about people, not just programs. This ministry is committed to helping women build an authentic relationship with Christ and equipping them to live out their faith every day. If you’re looking to invest in something that has an eternal impact, this is a ministry where your prayers, your time, and your generosity truly make a difference.

Interested in becoming a monthly donor to support our mission?

DONATE TODAY

Standing with Sand Branch: Being Salt and Light for Community Transformation

19 Jul

By Lynnette Burr-Lee

News

Standing with Sand Branch: Being Salt and Light for Community Transformation

July 19, 2026 | By Lynnette Burr-Lee |

At The S.A.L.T. Connection, our calling is rooted in pouring into others as God pours into us. While much of our focus is on equipping women with biblical truth and spiritual mentorship, living out a lifestyle of worship means stepping out into our communities and serving where the need is greatest.

Recently, our team—including blogger and leader Lynnette Burr-Lee—joined voices with local advocates to support an urgent cause right in our North Texas backyard: the revitalization of Sand Branch, Texas.

Sand Branch is a historic freedman’s town that has endured decades without the basic municipal services that many of us take for granted. Standing with this community isn’t just a civic duty; it is a direct reflection of our mission to love and serve others faithfully.

The Vision for Sand Branch

The mission is clear and urgent: to bring running water, sewer, and trash collection services to the Sand Branch community.

But the vision doesn’t stop at basic infrastructure. Advocates envision transforming Sand Branch into a vibrant, thriving innovation hub that honors its deep roots as a historic freedman’s town. The future of Sand Branch includes:

Affordable Housing: Restoring dignity and creating safe, sustainable places for families to thrive.
A Dynamic Community Center: A focal point for connection, resource sharing, and growth.
Historic Landmarks: Preserving and honoring the incredible history of the town.
Diverse Retail Opportunities: Building local economic power and independence.

Why It Matters and Why We Were There

In Matthew 5:13, we are called to be the salt of the earth. Salt preserves, heals, and enhances. When we show up for communities like Sand Branch, we are putting our faith into motion. True spiritual growth happens when we allow God’s love to reshape how we view and treat the neighbors around us.

As Lynnette recently shared, “The Holy Spirit teaches me how to love both believers and non-believers with grace, humility, and truth.” Loving our neighbors means advocating for their right to clean water, safe housing, and a hopeful future.

How You Can Join Us

Sand Branch needs your support, your prayers, and your voice for change. We encourage our S.A.L.T. community to look beyond our comfort zones and ask how we can be instruments of God’s justice and love.

Get Involved: Keep an eye out for local advocacy efforts, volunteer opportunities, and donation drives dedicated to bringing infrastructure to Sand Branch. Together, we can help restore this historic community.

Want to learn more about how we connect faith with community outreach? Explore our programs and join us on our journey of spiritual growth and transformation.

Volunteer Today

Grieved depressed African American female with dreadlocks crying hopelessly and looking away in dismay against white wall

17 Jul

By Shellram Calhoun

A Reminder When Feeling Broken

July 17, 2026 | By Shellram Calhoun |

Brokenness is the state or quality of being fractured, damaged, or no longer functioning correctly. It’s a state of emotional pain that makes you feel defeated and the trauma can crush you spiritually.

There have been times when I see or talk to others and I ask, “how are you doing?” Their response sometimes may be “life has been lifing.” What I interpret them saying is that life has thrown them some curve balls. The statement is becoming clearer to me. I feel we are allowing the troubles of life to consume us, stress us, and break us. We’re sleeping a lot, crying, overeating and so many other things that are not pleasing to God. We’ve forgotten that God is our source.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalms 34:18 (NIV)

High angle of crop African American female in despair with frown face suffering from trouble sitting near window

During your moments of brokenness; God uses these moments to soften your heart, foster reliance on Him and begin a process of complete restoration. He’s allowing us to draw closer to Him.

If you’ve ever been in a season of brokenness or you’re in one right now say this out loud; “God, you are my source and you will meet all my needs according to your riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19 (NIV)

When facing personal brokenness, The S.A.L.T. Connection is a supportive group of women who are waiting to walk alongside you. Break the isolation by joining one of our Mentoring Programs designed to draw you closer to God. You can also grow with us through partnership opportunities and donations.

Remember God calls each of us according to His purpose. You heal from brokenness when you yield first to God.

Person writes in a notebook on a sunny day. Focus on hands and pen outdoors.

17 Jun

By Lynnette Burr-Lee

Let’s Make it Personal

June 17, 2026 | By Lynnette Burr-Lee |

Today, we will reflect on our personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Let’s practice personalizing Scripture so it comes alive in our everyday lives. Sometimes we read Scripture as instructions, but how often do we personalize it? How often do we turn God’s Word into daily affirmations?

Here, I’ll give you two examples of verses you can start with.

“I will trust in the Lord with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding; I will acknowledge Him in all my ways, and He shall direct my paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV)

“Father God, I give all my cares and worries to You because You care for me.” (1 Peter 5:7 (NLT)

Young woman in checkered pajamas writing in a notebook while lying on a bed.

Imagine how beautiful those personalized words from God’s Word sound coming back to the ears of our loving Father, who listens so attentively to His children.

Three things I can promise you’ll receive by personalizing Scripture:

Making it personal builds intimacy with God.
Making it personal deepens your focus.
Making it personal renews your mindset.

This month, we are celebrating our SALT graduates because they were reminded that spiritual growth happens when God’s Word becomes personal. Each graduate has chosen to invest in learning, growing, and allowing God’s truth to shape their lives.

Today, I encourage you to ask yourself: “What is my next step?”

Perhaps God is leading you to become a future SALT student and deepen your understanding of His Word. Perhaps He is calling you to become a donor, helping make it possible for others to experience the life-changing benefits of the SALT program.

17 Jun

Volunteer Spotlight: Jacque George

June 17, 2026 | By Charita |

At the core of The S.A.L.T. Connection is a simple cycle: pouring into women so they can pour into others. In the feature below, Jacque George – on of our dedicated volunteers – shares a firsthand look at the transformation and spiritual fruit made possible through this ministry.

What is the most significant “God-moment” you’ve witnessed while volunteering that reaffirmed your decision to be part of this team?

One of the most significant God-moments for me has been watching the mission of The S.A.L.T. Connection come alive. What may begin as something I’m helping plan behind the scenes—a conversation, an invitation, or an act of service—becomes a moment God uses to touch a woman’s heart.

I’ve seen women feel encouraged, strengthened, and reminded that God still has purpose for their lives. Those moments have reaffirmed that ministry doesn’t only happen behind a podium. Sometimes it happens through preparation, communication, hospitality, and simply making sure someone knows they are seen and valued. That’s kingdom work.

How does the mission of SALT. align with your personal “life mission” or your current season of faith?

The mission of S.A.L.T. aligns beautifully with this season of my life where I am intentional about using my gifts to encourage, support, and build others.

What resonates with me most is the idea of pouring into women through God’s Word so they can pour into others. I believe serving isn’t just about what I can do—it’s about what God can do through a willing heart. Whether through my communication pieces, planning/organizing an event, encouragement, or simply showing up, I want my life to reflect a faith that strengthens others.

When you donate your time or resources to S.A.L.T., what specific “fruit” or results do you hope to see in the lives of the women being served?

My prayer is that women experience spiritual growth, renewed confidence, and a deeper understanding of God’s Word. I hope they leave every S.A.L.T. experience encouraged and equipped, knowing that their story matters. The fruit I hope to see is lasting transformation—women growing in faith, mentoring others, serving their families and communities, and becoming women who pour into the next generation with grace, wisdom, and love.

How did you first discover The S.A.L.T. Connection, and what was it about their mission to “pour into others” that resonated with you?

I discovered The S.A.L.T. Connection through ministry relationships and friendships that grew into something much deeper. Many of the women involved were first sisters in Christ through church connections, but over time those relationships became a true source of encouragement, support, and spiritual family.

What resonated with me most was the simplicity and strength of the mission: women being poured into through God’s Word so they can pour into others. That’s how God works. He fills us not only for ourselves, but so that what He has placed in us can bless someone else. When one woman is strengthened, the impact reaches her family, her church, her workplace, and her community.

For someone on the fence about getting involved or donating to The S.A.L.T. Connection, what is the one thing you want them to know about the heart of this organization?

I want them to know that the heart of The S.A.L.T. Connection is genuine. This ministry is about more than events and programs—it’s about investing in women intentionally and spiritually.

SALT creates space for women to grow in God’s Word, be encouraged in their walk, and discover that they still have something meaningful to offer. When you support this ministry, you’re helping create a ripple effect of faith, encouragement, and purpose that continues far beyond a single event or moment.I encourage anyone seeking a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Lord to join this program. It provides a supportive environment where you can grow in your faith without having to navigate the journey alone.

Interested in becoming a volunteer for us? Contact us below!

SIGN UP HERE

Program Alumni Spotlight: Tracey Williams

19 May

Program Alumni Spotlight: Tracey Williams

May 19, 2026 | By Charita |

Sometimes, life’s most painful moments are exactly where we find our true purpose. For SALT Connection alumna Tracey Williams, hitting rock bottom wasn’t the end of her story—it was the beginning of a profound spiritual awakening. In our latest spotlight feature, Tracey shares how a timely knock on her door and a deeply rooted community helped her transform her deepest pain into a powerful passion for helping others.

Why did you join The S.A.L.T. Connection program?

I initially avoided the program because I was intimidated by what it might require from me. I wasn’t for sure if I was ready to be challenged or vulnerable in that way. The Holy Spirit told Charita to come and get me, and I am forever grateful for her obedience. I eventually realized that the very reasons I was resisting were the exact reasons I needed it.

What challenges did our program help you with?

When I started the program, I was in the middle of a life-changing season. It helped me understand why I was going through what I was experiencing at that time and brought clarity, healing and spiritual growth. I was surrounded by a group of women who walked with me through that season, so I never felt like I was going through it alone.

How has our program helped you pour into others?

The program has strengthened my relationship with the Lord, deepening my understanding of his word and equipping me to encourage, support and pray for those around me with greater wisdom and compassion. It has also given me structure and the confidence to challenge myself rather than remain in my comfort zone.

What is one main reason you would encourage another woman to join our program?

I encourage anyone seeking a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Lord to join this program. It provides a supportive environment where you can grow in your faith without having to navigate the journey alone.

Interested in sharing your alumni story? Email us below!

SUBMIT HERE

Close-up of a woman reading a Bible with a pen, focused on text.

14 May

By Shellram Calhoun

God is the Living Word

May 14, 2026 | By Shellram Calhoun |

God’s living word is essential because it is active, powerful, and serves as a direct divinely inspired lifeline between God and humanity. It enables salvation, spiritual growth and transformation.

The Bible can never be completely comprehended. It breathes life into dead souls. It makes a difference in our thinking, behavior and attitude. It acts as a divine scalpel, performing spiritual surgery by reaching the hidden places where our own logic cannot go. It doesn’t just inform our minds; it resuscitates our spirits, breathing life into dead souls and re-aligning our thinking, behavior and attitude with His perfect will.

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart”

– Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

Holy Bible open on a stand inside a church, symbolizing faith and spirituality.

Meditating on God’s Word is like marinating in His truth—mulling over, reflecting, and dwelling on the Scriptures until they saturate our hearts. But knowledge alone is not the goal. Application of God’s living Word requires active engagement and obedience to Him.

If we merely observe the Word without applying it, we remain spiritually stagnant, missing the vital power it offers.We essentially refuse the very ‘spiritual surgery’ intended to heal us, leaving the living Word on the shelf while our hearts remain unchanged.

Real transformation requires us to move beyond hearing to active engagement with Him. When we step out in obedience to His living Word, the result is a life completely redefined. This is what I love about our ministry; it has transformed my life by showing me that God’s Word isn’t just a book—it’s alive in me.

At the S.A.L.T. Connection, we’re committed to equipping women with biblical truth, nurturing faith that endures, and creating a life-giving community where transformation takes root. We invite you to partner with us through your giving and prayers to help expand this life-changing kingdom work; cultivating lasting spiritual impact for generations to come.