Open Door Shelter: Providing Food, Shelter with Help from Community

A letter from Open Door Shelter Interim Director, Jeannette Archer-Simons

There was a two-year-old knocking on the door a couple of nights ago.

He was cold and he, and his four-year-old brother wanted inside. Not too unusual, given the cold and snowy weather of late. Our little ones, children and grandchildren like to come in when they are cold, wet and especially if they are hungry.

In this case they were knocking on the door of our shelter.  It was just after dinner and the family had stepped outside for a few minutes before going to the family shelter to begin getting ready for bed. That-two-year old wasn't hungry, because he, his brother and parents were fed by the shelter volunteers and staff. Mom and Dad had to do chores like all of our residents before and after dinner.  Just like at home.

People become homeless for a variety of reasons.  For some it is a critical tipping point, like a job loss or an illness in the family.  For some it is a relationship failure or abuse.  For some it is bad habits or mental health issues.  Each didn't expect to be homeless.  Most want to change their circumstances. We provide help and hope.

This family won't be here long  they just need some time to get back on their feet.  In the last month alone, we had– three families that all found permanent housing, with our help. For one of the families we provided twin beds for two girls because Mom couldn't afford it.  A wonderful donor provided sheets and blankets.  They all have a home for Christmas. 

Our two year old and his brother are safe and warm and fed and have a place to sleep for as long as it takes to get the family back on track.  But they want a home.

Every day we give people shelter, food and help.  This provides them with hope. 

As you look at your family this holiday season, if you can, we could use your help. 

Consider a gift to Open Door Shelter to provide the resources to move people from crisis to stability.  No two year old should be standing in the cold and knocking on a shelter door.  It happens.  But we can change that family's life with a contribution to support transitioning them to a real home. 

Thank you if you have already made a contribution this year.  Every gift makes a difference.

May you and your family be filled with hope and share our warm wishes for everyone for the holidays.

Jeannette Archer-Simons
Interim Executive Director
Open Door Shelter