Who's In Your Corner?
Participants often share with us how lonely chronic homelessness can be. It’s difficult to sustain relationships with family or friends when living on the streets. Struggles with mental illness or substance use could also put strain on those relationships. It can be incredibly isolating, especially when those passing by fail to even acknowledge them as human beings.
This is why we stress the importance of relational care at Pathways to Housing PA. Our staff genuinely care about our participants, and they have many ways of showing it. One participant shared how grateful he was that Jeannette, a Peer Support Specialist on Team 10, was always responsive when he called or texted needing support. Another participant recognized Amanda, our Health Service Navigator, for checking in and encouraging her during a difficult time. And DeBo’s friendship with Angie, a Service Coordinator on Team 7, was a true catalyst for change. If our participants need us, we are in their corner.
Think about who’s in your corner. Throughout our lives, we each, at some point, have had someone who was there for us when we called. Someone who pushed us out of our comfort zone when we needed it. Someone who gives an assuring smile that calms your nerves. Maybe you’re that person for someone else. We need each other. As humans, we are wired for connection with others. Our brains light up when we hug someone we love. Even the earliest humans formed groups to lean on each other to survive.
As we reflect on the past year and look ahead to the new, we encourage you to reach out to those people in your corner. You can share that you’re grateful for them, or simply check in. We, as a society, are stronger together. Check on your neighbors if you feel comfortable. Donate to a local food pantry. Offer a genuine smile, if not more, to someone experiencing homelessness. No one wants to feel isolated or lonely in a world with over 8 billion people.
Support Pathways to Housing PA by making a year-end gift:
