March 2025 | Message from Our Executive Director
| I Asked And You Delivered / “Strangers Can Love You” I asked you for uplifting and inspiring stories of the impact of your work in a prior newsletter. And you delivered. We always want more stories to share. Please tell us something good by following this link. We will be profiling as many of your stories as we can. Here’s what Anne Dunnenberger with Bridge of Hope shared: After separating from her partner, Ayanna and 4-year-old Raymond spiraled into a world of unknowns: where would they live? Who would hire her? How could she provide for her son with special needs while working? She contacted her local Bridge of Hope, a unique housing-first program that uses a three-way ministry model consisting of a partnership among families facing homelessness, church-based Neighboring Volunteers trained to provide practical support and encouragement, and professional case management services. Ayanna’s Neighboring Volunteers have been very consistent in supporting both her and her son. She didn’t have a lot of support from her own family, but her group of Neighboring Volunteers, including their children, showed up on move-in day and made sure the family got settled when they found their new home. They also encouraged Ayanna when things were difficult, providing friendship and celebrating successes with her. They offered a listening ear, brought her meals, and threw birthday parties for both Ayanna and Raymond. “One time I told them that I was sad, and they brought me flowers and cookies,” Ayanna remembered. “Strangers can love you,” she said. “They have changed my life.” To find out more about Bridge of Hope, visit Bridge of Hope | Helping to End Family Homelessness. Based in Pennsylvania, they have 20 locations across 13 states, many of which are in PA. The Housing Alliance exists to make the work of groups like Bridge of Hope possible by advocating for increased funding and improved public policy, supporting local communities with training and technical assistance on effective practices, and hosting multiple educational opportunities. Thank you for taking the time to share your stories of success and inspiration. It helps us make the case for increased resources and better public policy. And sharing the good helps us all stay motivated and inspired especially during tough times. A New Relationship with Aaron I thank Aaron Zappia for his amazing work as our Director of Government Affairs for the last three years and am thankful the Housing Alliance will still get to benefit from his talents by being represented by him in his new role with Long Nyquist. You’ll still see him around! In partnership, Phyllis Chamberlain Executive Director |