“You have value”, “You are beautiful”. Pastor Delly Sands reminds us that these simple words can alter the course of our lives.

Raised by her grandmother in Miami, Delphine Sands grew up as one of seven children in a family that was struggling to make ends meet. Her childhood was marked by confusion and hardship, even believing for a time that her mother was her sister. In this challenging environment, Sands turned to drugs as a way to escape her reality. Her life spiraled into a cycle of jail and homelessness, voiding her life of hope or purpose. However, everything changed for Sands when, while in jail, Mary Washington spoke a simple yet profound sentiment to her: “You have value, and you are beautiful.” These words became a turning point in Sands’ life, sparking a transformation that would lead her to discover her faith and her self-worth.

Finding God became of pivotal importance for Sands, helping her to see her own value and purpose. Her experiences of struggle and redemption have made her deeply empathetic to others facing similar challenges. This empathy, combined with her faith, led Pastor Delly to focus her life on helping those in need and uplifting her community.

Sands recognized a gap in her community and decided to take action, starting an outreach program to provide food to over 50 families every two weeks. She and her team faithfully provide prayers, food, and support. What began as a small initiative in the early 2000s has since grown into a thriving organization that impacts countless lives.

The Remnant Outreach Ministry, now headed out of Shiloh Baptist Church, serves as a beacon of hope for those in the West King community who lack resources and support. Through this organization, she offers home Bible studies, teaches financial literacy, and educates community members about cultural identity. While her title is “Pastor,” her role extends far beyond preaching the gospel. She is a mentor, a teacher, and a source of inspiration for those seeking to improve their lives. Her ministry is not confined to Sunday services; instead, it is a continuous effort to provide consistent support and guidance to those in need.

Sands emphasizes that her church is more than a place of worship; it is a hub for community outreach and connection. “We meet on Sundays out of custom,” she explains, “but the true beauty of the church is that it has allowed our outreach program to become consistent and extend beyond the holidays.” Her work through Remnant Outreach Ministry has created a lasting impact, helping individuals and families find hope, stability, and a sense of belonging.

Despite the challenges she has faced, Pastor Delly Sands radiates joy and optimism. “Life doesn’t have to stop being fun when you give yourself over to Jesus,” she says. “In fact, this is the most fun I’ve had in decades.” Her journey from hardship to hope serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith, love, and community. Through her ministry, Sands continues to inspire others to recognize their own value and beauty, proving that even the simplest words can change lives.