Even small contributions can create a meaningful impact for families in need.
Builders of Hope, one of HOME International's local initiative strategic partners, provides transitional housing for families with school-aged children. Families in the program stay in fully furnished homes for 4–6 months while working toward financial stability.
A new family moved into the Adamstown property in early November after months of living in a motel. With two teenagers and a father working at a local grocery store, they were thrilled to finally have a home. However, the challenges they faced were still evident. The father’s sneakers, worn out from long use, were in bad shape.
The Adamstown Builders of Hope volunteer coach, Kendra Shuman, stepped in to help. She gave the father a Welcome Home gift card and encouraged him to visit the thrift store to find a replacement. While sneakers in his size weren’t available, he found something even better.
"I met with the parents today," Kendra shared. "They were excited to show me their receipt from being at Welcome Home this week. While he didn't find sneakers, the dad, who works in the dairy section and uses motor equipment to move products, did even better. He found steel-toed Carhartt boots! He was so excited that he sent me a picture of his new boots later that day!"
For the father, the boots were more than just a practical upgrade. They offered safety and peace of mind.
"He told me he no longer had to worry about his toes getting run over," Kendra explained.
Reflecting on the impact, Kendra added, "I cannot tell you how much I appreciate the opportunity you have given us to help this family. Yes, they are saving money as part of our program's standard requirements. Still, thanks to Welcome Home's gift card contribution, I love it when they can inexpensively get the things they need. It enables them to save even more for their future."
The Welcome Home Initiative provides gift cards to nonprofits, from shelters and transitional housing to social services, at no cost. These organizations distribute the cards to individuals facing financial hardship, tailoring support to meet their needs.
In closing, Kendra expressed her gratitude: "I wanted to write a true and proper thank you that you could use with your donors. I want to ensure people know how HOME International, Inc. is truly meeting a need in our local community through its Welcome Home Local Initiative."
If you’d like to be part of this local mission, click HERE to explore four simple ways you can help.
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