On our 25th Anniversary

Dear friends,

This year marks an amazing milestone:  The 25th Anniversary of Project HOME.   When we think back to our early days of building relationships with the men and women on the streets and opening those first emergency shelters, we are truly in awe at all that has been accomplished.  Your support, participation and leadership played a critical role in creating a brighter future filled with hope and opportunity.

Back then, it seemed that homelessness was an utterly intractable problem, a permanent feature of the urban landscape, one which we could at best manage or even police.  Today, we dare to speak boldly of ending street homelessness.  And we have good reason to do so:  Over the years, we have developed proven, cost-effective solutions.  We have witnessed thousands of persons break the cycle of homelessness and poverty.  We have experienced the power of love and recovery.  We have been blessed by an ever-expanding community of hope, of persons from all walks of life who share a vision of a just and compassionate society and who share their gifts and resources to make that vision a reality.  We have learned how each person is part of the solution and has a gift to share.  As our friend and supporter Jon Bon Jovi says, “Because We Can.”

So we have much to be grateful for.  In a culture that often bases people’s value on materialism and false externals, we strive to stay grounded in a commitment to the immutable dignity of each person.  In a society where human bonds are often frayed by hyper-individualism, we have experienced the gift of community.  And in an age marked by cynicism, we have been inspired by the countless stories of transformation.

We know this work is far from finished.  As we celebrate the amazing accomplishments of these twenty five years, men, women, and even youth still live out on the streets.  Many communities are still ravaged by poverty.  Many of our children still face bleak futures.  And yet we cannot help but have hope.  The story of the past quarter century is one of odds overcome, challenges met, the impossible accomplished. 

We are still on the journey home.  And while the going may at times be difficult, we continue on, compelled by this urgent mission, inspired by the many stories of lives transformed, and empowered by a community of friends old and new.  It is a joyful journey, and we are grateful for your companionship. 

Sincerely,

Joan McConnon   Sister Mary Scullion