News
From the Director’s Chair
I find it challenging at times to remember what our purpose is when human beings maintain their destructive lifestyles while residing at Sojourners’. Seven individuals along with two children had their services terminated due to alcohol or drugs during a recent 14 day period. Examples on the flip-side have been witnessing a client pass their driving test, while another was able to receive a breathing apparatus that will reduce potential health issues. Seeing the delight in a client’s face while biting into a juicy peach from our tree, or the joy of little ones picking our strawberries and raspberries are reminders of what life is about. Another big success was the client-initiated car wash held at Howard Hughes which netted $190. The money is being used to pay
for gas when the clients go to the Snake River Clinic in Lewiston for free medical care.
Fundraising — Of course, the financial situation just seems to get more challenging, but for every problem there is a solution. One of the potential solutions is our first annual Dance-A-Thon which will be held on November 17th in partnership with the Moose Lodge. Another idea gaining momentum is our selling excellent quality sausages during special events. One of our loyal supporters, having heard this idea, donated $200 to begin this venture.
Have Client Will Hire — Here’s another idea: if anyone is needing their yard raked, weeds pulled, snow shoveled,
or any other kind of grunt work please think of us. We have clients who are hard workers and would appreciate
the opportunity. The rate of pay would be negotiated between you and the client, and if you’re satisfied
with the work, perhaps donate a couple of dollars for every hour the client works.
Program Updates — The Obama Bucks (Federal Stimulus) has helped 295 people in 115 households who were either homeless or facing eviction. We only have enough money available for approximately ten more households. Our Project Warmth grant provides housing for individuals who are homeless and have a disability. We currently are working with six households and have funds available for four more. We recently received a small grant for homeless prevention in the rural counties in our region. Our Transitional Housing Program has been running at near capacity for months and months. The Troy Thrift Store &
Foodbank has been experiencing a major increase in households needing food, with 16 new households signed
up within the last two weeks.
Staff Changes — After two and a half years, our Case Manager Rose Stauffer resigned from her position in order to pursue a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Eastern Washington University. We will miss her creative witty nature and her delicious home baked goodies. We wish her the best in all her endeavors. Mary Walsh has transitioned
from case management for the Obama Bucks program to being the case manager for our shelter clients. We’ve hired Tanya Carr to provide case management one day a week to our participants in Project Warmth. Amanda Wagar has stepped in to provide case management for the Obama Bucks until the funds run out.
— Stephen Bonnar