My Nonprofit Reviews

I've known about Family Promise since it was just a dream that the Lawrence faith community could provide support to homeless families. I watched as many dedicated individuals worked to make that dream a reality. Now that Family Promise is a reality, I can lend my talents to this project. I have a double connection with Lawrence Family Promise. First my husband and I are coordinators for our church. We spend the over night shift one night each quarter as well as help with the evening meal and fellowship. It is a privilege to help with this project. My second connection is as an elementary school principal in Lawrence. I know the effects that homelessness has on children. There are homeless children attending every one of our 15 elementary buildings. Two children that have been served by Family Promise have attended school in my building. Having a safe place to sleep and meals that you can depend on are critical to a child, without these learning is impossible. When this family became involved with Family Promise, I saw an immediate improvement in the children's attitude at school. They were more focused and ready to learn each day. They willingly talked about the nice people that provided meals and a place for them to sleep. They told me that they felt safe sleeping at the church. They came to school with their homework done and ready to learn. Sometimes when we have homeless children, they will ask me to keep a special possession for them. Living in shelters, you never know if your favorite possession will be there when you get back. These children were happy to know that they could leave their favorite toy while they were at school, and it would be okay until they returned. It seems so simple, but so important. My only regret is that we can't support more families.

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