Former WIN Network: Detroit participant produces “A Faithfilled Christmas” to inspire and give back to the community
In 2013, Sherria Perry was going through what she describes as “a dark time” in her life. Perry was pregnant with her daughter Neveah, experiencing depression, and was having a hard time accessing resources and getting to her prenatal care appointments.
When Perry joined the Women-Inspired Neighborhood (WIN) Network: Detroit and began meeting with her Community Health Worker, Linda Hopkins-Johnson (LJ), things began to change. “When I had nowhere else to turn, WIN Network was supportive. It was the support I had been needing when I was down. They were compassionate,” says Perry. LJ and WIN Network connected Perry with the resources she needed to have a healthy pregnancy and regain control of her life.
“LJ went above and beyond with me. She didn’t have to do a lot of the things that she did – she helped get me to doctor’s appointments, she prayed with me, she made me feel like she cared,” explained Perry.
During this time, Sherria Perry says she found her purpose – writing. Perry believes she is meant to use writing to help others, “It was a dark time in my life, I wrote everything in my heart, and my heart told me it was for somebody else.” She began to write plays and skits that she hoped would empower and encourage women and communities.
In April 2017, Perry’s first ever stage play debuted at the International Institute in downtown Detroit. The show was sold out.
For her, the work is an opportunity to open doors for people. “I like to use newcomers to act and work in my plays. I believe in giving people chances and opening up platforms,” Perry explains.
Perry’s second stage play, A Faithfilled Christmas, will debut on December 16th, 2017, with two showings at 3pm and 7pm. The play tells the story of a struggling foster mother caring for young children, and her family’s experience using their faith to get through difficult times.
Sherria Perry will honor the impact that WIN Network has had on her life and her work by collecting toys and gifts to be donated to current WIN Network families. Those attending the show are encouraged to bring items suitable as gifts for children, and gifts for moms.
“WIN Network was a blessing, and I want to bless other people,” Perry says, hopeful that her work can inspire others like her, and pay it forward.
A Faithfilled Christmas, a stage play, can be seen at 3pm and 7pm on December 16th, 2017. The play will be performed at Faith Church on 897 Philip St., Detroit, MI. Tickets are $20 general admission, and free for youth 18 and under who are accompanied by a paying adult. Group rates are available for groups of 10 or more. View and share the event on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/810503589129081/
Sherria Perry can be contacted at devinedivaauthor@gmail.com or 313-454-6051.
