Reaching Out: Helping to keep the 'hope' in Housing Hope
Housing Hope is not just another shelter. Rather, they provide housing options and a variety of social services to help families become independent and self-sufficient.
The downward spiral from independence to homeless can traumatize an entire family. Keeping family members together at this critical time greatly increases the likelihood that the family will work through their problems more quickly and remain intact.
Through guidance and counseling, Housing Hope helps families recognize the series of circumstances that led them to become homeless. The process allows families to discover the strengths within themselves that will lead them back to self-sufficiency and greatly reduce the chances of them again becoming homeless.
In 1993 an abandoned house near downtown Arlington was purchased by Housing Hope and converted into two townhouse apartments and a daylight basement unit. Since then the employees of Cascade Valley Hospital and Clinic have sponsored one of the units.
"Each time a new family moves in, the word spreads quickly throughout the hospital and our clinics," shared Dian Cassaday, Human Relations Specialist. "And then the donations start coming in. Sometimes families arrive with next to nothing. We do our best to fulfill their list of needs."
Employees also remember the children on their birthdays and provide baskets of food for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
"We always do something special for our families at Christmas. Clothing, toys, sometimes even a tree," added Dian.
"These families have been through a struggle, often involving medical problems, unemployment, and finally, the loss of their home. Difficult circumstances have changed their lives. We want to help offer these families a new opportunity and the chance for a brighter future."
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. It should not replace a visit with your health care professional. Call your doctor if you need more information or have additional questions.