When tragedy strikes, it’s easy to feel lost and broken. But some people, like Susie Jennings, find a way to transform their pain into purpose, turning personal suffering into a lifelong mission that changes lives. From a nurse in the Philippines to a global advocate for the homeless, Susie’s story is a powerful reminder that faith, resilience, and obedience can create an impact far beyond what we can imagine.
From the Philippines to Dallas: A Journey of Faith
Born and raised in Negros Occidental, Philippines, Susie began her career as a nurse, a profession she embraced as a way to serve others. But her journey took a pivotal turn when Baylor Medical Center, based in Dallas, Texas, came to the Philippines looking to hire nurses. In 1982, Susie moved to the U.S. to work at Baylor, taking the next step in her career and life.
It was in Dallas that Susie’s life would face an unimaginable tragedy. In 1993, her husband, a military serviceman, took his own life. His body was discovered 30 days later in Oklahoma. Just three months after this devastating loss, Susie was involved in a car accident that left her unable to walk. Later that year, her neighbor also committed suicide just 30 feet from her home. These two tragic deaths left Susie questioning her faith and God’s plan for her life.
A Dream, A Vision, and the Beginning of a Mission
In the depths of her grief, Susie experienced a powerful dream in which she was knocking on her neighbor’s door, telling them about Jesus. This dream was followed by a Bible verse that would become her anchor: “With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.” (Mark 10:27). This was a turning point in her life, when she decided to trust in God’s call, even in the face of such intense personal loss.
Two weeks later, while walking through downtown Dallas, Susie was led to a bridge where people lived in cardboard boxes. Despite her doubts and reluctance—”No, not me!“—Susie recognized that God was calling her to help those living in poverty and homelessness.
The very next day, Susie went to Baylor Hospital, where she was a nurse supervisor, and asked her colleagues to donate $5 each to help her buy blankets for the homeless. This simple but powerful act of obedience marked the beginning of her mission. She became known as “The Blanket Lady” as she tirelessly distributed blankets to those in need.
The Birth of Operation Care International
In 2001, Susie took her mission to the next level, founding Operation Care International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the homeless and impoverished. One of the organization’s most remarkable initiatives is the annual “Birthday Party for Jesus,” held every December.
This event, recognized as the nation’s largest birthday party for the homeless, provides thousands of guests—many of them homeless—with haircuts, blankets, eyeglasses, clothing, and even foot washing—a gesture of humility and love.
Susie’s mission extended beyond Dallas, as she traveled to over 18 countries, impacting 45,000 children through her outreach. She has given away school supplies, personal care kits, and clothing, reaching people in places like the Philippines, Brazil, Kenya, Cambodia, and Israel.
Challenges and Faith: Overcoming the Odds
Moving to a new country and adapting to a new culture was not without its challenges. Susie faced language barriers, cultural differences, and the simple but significant adjustment to the American lifestyle—where everything seemed disposable, unlike in the Philippines, where things were reused and repurposed. But through it all, Susie remained grounded in her faith, which had been instilled in her by her mother, a devout prayer warrior.
Her mother’s teachings and Susie’s own relationship with God became the foundation for overcoming the many obstacles she faced. “You have to have strong faith to overcome challenges,” Susie says. “With faith in God, anything is possible.”
As she worked as a nurse for 33 years, Susie never once asked for a raise, always focusing on giving back rather than receiving. In 2011, she made the decision to leave her nursing career to dedicate herself fully to her nonprofit work.
Global Vision: One Day Movement
Susie’s reach expanded dramatically when, in 2013, she felt a call from God during a seven-day prayer and fasting period in Indonesia. God gave her a vision: to spread the message of hope and transformation to all 50 states and across 239 countries. This vision led to the creation of the One Day Movement, an event aimed at celebrating Jesus’ birth with the homeless. In 2021, the movement aimed to host gatherings in every nation, reflecting God’s vision for the salvation of the world.
As of now, Susie has already reached 52 countries, with 107 countries committed to joining the movement. She aims to raise $10,000 per country to fund the celebrations. Her goal? To touch the lives of 5,000 more homeless people in each country, spreading the love and message of Jesus on a global scale.
Recognized for Her Impact
For her work and dedication to serving the homeless, Susie has received numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Humanitarian Award from the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Texas. These recognitions affirm the tremendous impact she has had on communities around the world.
Words of Wisdom
What makes Susie such an effective leader and influencer?
“Don’t give up, even when you fail. Just keep getting up,” she advises. “Success is not about how many times you fall, but how many times you rise.”
To the younger generation, Susie’s message is simple yet profound: “Follow your dream, work hard, and never waste time. God will help you if you focus on your goals.”
A Life Transformed by Faith
Susie Jennings’ life is a testimony of God’s power to transform even the darkest moments into beacons of hope. What started as a response to personal tragedy has blossomed into a global movement that continues to inspire and serve. Through her faith, resilience, and unconditional obedience, Susie has become a true mover, shaker, and influencer—showing the world that with God, all things are possible.
For more about Susie’s mission, visit Susie Jennings’ website.
