So Much Joy - Letter from the CEO

Dear Friend:

 Our staff members have been sharing stories about the deep impact your support over the holidays had on those we serve. Don’t ever underestimate how much your donations of gifts, food and time mean to our neighbors.

 Thanks to you, we were able to provide gift cards to every single resident and client in our Homeless Services programs. I hope you understand how empowering that is. While some cards no doubt went to pay for essentials, it is cheering to know that some clients were able to purchase something for themselves or perhaps even others. That feeling is a real gift. One staff member shared that she felt like Santa Claus and the Amazon Prime delivery person combined as she distributed the many gifts you donated.

 A special holiday meal reminded one of our residents of home. DJ is a young man who fled El Salvador to escape gang violence. He is living in one of our shelters after facing multiple obstacles, including health challenges that meant he could no longer work. He calls his parents back home often. A generous financial donation enabled us to give all our guests Panes con Pollo, a traditional Salvadorean sandwich customarily served on Christmas Eve. DJ and the rest of our shelter guests were so thankful for this small piece of home.  

"I was so surprised by the Panes con Pollo! I just wanted to thank you. I even told my mom about them and she says you all are angels." -- DJ

 At another shelter, volunteers came in to play bingo with residents over the holiday, bringing back a much-missed sense of human connection. “That was warming to see,” IW staff member Henrietta said. “There was so much joy.”

 Thank you for your generosity, and for your humanity. Your commitment to our neighbors strengthens our community.

With great gratitude -

Courtney Hall

CEO