MURFREESBORO, TN - One issue that nearly everyone in Middle Tennessee has faced at some point—whether directly or indirectly—is the high cost of housing. For many families already living in poverty, the rising price of rent can quickly become the tipping point that leads to homelessness.

When financial challenges pile up, what may seem like a small inconvenience to some can feel like an unscalable mountain to others. Take, for example, a flat tire. If the average driver got a flat tire caused by a nail, they'd take it to a tire shop to be plugged for about 20-bucks. After the repair, they'd continue to work - - problem solved. Topping the tire problem is the fact that without a tire, you lose your means of transportation. Without a car, you may lose your job, which can quickly lead to even greater financial struggles.

For someone living paycheck to paycheck, that same $20 tire repair might as well cost $20,000. For those facing serious financial hardships, every dollar is already accounted for—often before it’s earned. While that may not be the ideal way to maintain a budget, it can become a necessary way of life when every penny is needed just to cover housing, food, and medical necessities.

Most single income households spend the lion’s share of the dollars they earn on housing, but a mediocore view of the future can quickly turn dark when an unexpected expense is brought into perspective. And for many, that commonly occurring flat tire can force impossible choices between paying rent, buying groceries, or filling a needed prescription... That was Ansley Ledbetter, Community Engagement and Social Media Coordinator for Barnabas Vision.

Problems can compound quickly when money is diverted away from essential prescription medications for someone already struggling with fragile mental health—just to pay for a flat tire and avoid losing transportation to and from work... Small, but important expenses become a snowball, growing larger and larger with each roll. What might appear minor from the outside looking in, can make a person feel like they're trying to cross a raging river without knowing how to swim—and with no life raft in sight.

This is where nonprofit organizations like Barnabas Vision step in—helping local residents who find themselves facing the toughest days of their lives. Based in Murfreesboro, Barnabas Vision serves those in need across Rutherford County, providing utility and rent assistance, along with emotional and spiritual support.

Volunteers and staff at Barnabas walk alongside those in our community, offering financial help while focusing on empowering individuals through life-related education.

Barnabas Vision hosts classes and workshops that teach vital life skills such as budgeting, coping strategies, and healthy decision-making. The organization also offers Bible studies, support groups, and mentoring sessions for clients receiving assistance. Programs like “Mom’s Group” and the weekly Women’s Encouragement Group create safe spaces for connection, growth, and healing.

Later this month, the organization invites everyone in the community to join a special event called “Pause to Praise,” scheduled for October 23, 2025—a day dedicated to prayer, reflection, gratitude, and community connection...

In a world where a flat tire can mean the difference between stability and crisis, Barnabas Vision serves as a reminder that hope is never out of reach.

October 23, 2025 – Pause to Pray: For those wanting to show their support for positive change in our community — or to give thanks for the many volunteers and caring individuals who help others — simply take a moment to “Pause” to “Pray” throughout the day on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Luncheon at MTSU: For those who would like to take part in the LIVE “Pause to Praise” event, Barnabas Vision will host a special luncheon and fundraiser on the MTSU Campus. This uplifting experience will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and it’s events like these that help fund the many positive programs and outreach efforts the nonprofit organization provides throughout Rutherford County.

Click Here to Reserve a Seat at the Luncheon. More details can also be found on their Facebook page below...