CIRCLEVILLE, OH — At last week’s Sunrise Rotary Club meeting, Ashley Patton stood before members with a story of transformation, gratitude, and purpose. Once caught in the grip of addiction and abuse, Patton found a path to healing in 2018 through The Covering—a local faith-based program focused on helping women and children overcome life-controlling struggles. Today, she serves as the organization’s outreach director, helping others walk the same path she once did.
Patton’s testimony is just one of many shaped by Central Ohio Living Free (COLF), a ministry built on compassion, community, and unwavering faith. Founded in 2016 by Delbert and Jenny Hill, COLF grew out of the couple’s deep desire to serve those in need—whether struggling with addiction, facing homelessness, or simply seeking direction. The Hills opened their own home to provide shelter, mentorship, and stability to dozens over the years.
“We’re far from perfect,” the Hills admit, “but we’ve seen how God can take brokenness and turn it into something beautiful.” That belief forms the foundation of their ministry, which now includes an outreach branch, residential recovery spaces, and transitional living support.
Though The Covering began by addressing substance abuse, its mission has since expanded. Today, the program welcomes women from all walks of life—those battling incarceration, loneliness, fear, or hopelessness. “If you’re hurting, we get it,” Patton said. “We’ve been there. And we’re here to walk with you through it.”
For more information about Central Ohio Living Free or The Covering, visit [COLF’s website] or reach out to their outreach team.
