2020. What is there left to say? Not gonna lie, we are all exhausted. However, I want to share with you the good news! Because of your support throughout this challenging year, Hospitality House has continued to successfully move formerly homeless families and individuals into stable, independent housing. 

 

So far this year, despite the global pandemic, we’ve been able to house one-hundred (100) people, including fifty-two (52) children and sixteen (16) survivors whose homelessness was a result of domestic violence. Seventy-seven (77) of those were also chronically homeless and had lived anywhere from two to twenty years outside in tents, barns or cars. 

 

For many, moving back out on their own came with heightened anxiety and increased insecurity. During these past nine months of quarantine and stay-at-home orders, many of us have experienced feelings of loneliness and isolation.

 

In many ways, that is the opposite of those who come to stay with us. Most often, they arrive alone with little, or no, support system. After working to make a better way for themselves; while excited to move forward, they are also leaving behind the guidance and structure that our staff and programs provide. 

 

As I was leaving work late one Friday evening, I held the door for two of our residents who were going out smiling, their arms filled with personal items. One of the women held up a homemade framed collage with photos of children. The light in her eyes was noticeably bright as she held up the frame and said, “See my children, Ms. Tina?”  I looked at the well-worn collage and said, “Yes, I met your children last Christmas. Is this your Moving Day?” She beamed, and answered, “Yes, and now my children can come to my new place and see me.” 

 

During this unparalleled time, each of us has had to muster a new level of courage and take exceptional steps to keep moving forward in life. We continue to witness this within our walls and throughout the community.

 

Never did any of us imagine a scenario such as 2020, yet, here we are, still doing the work. Doing the work, in-person, every single day because homelessness, hunger and poverty don’t stop for a pandemic. 

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Blessings to you this Holiday Season,