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Dear Friend,
A mom enrolled in Horizons’ program shared that the hardest part of the holidays is not having her own space to enjoy traditions with her children. Last year she brought a small tree into their shelter room, which was quickly deemed a safety hazard. “The look in my son’s eyes as we had to take it down broke my heart. We really couldn’t enjoy the holidays like we would in a home of our own.”
This year she’s employed and living in an apartment of her own thanks to her work with Horizons’ Family Advocates. But the challenges for other families over the holidays are many. Horizons continues to step up for children and their parents during this time of year, as does our community. In addition to providing critical financial support this holiday season, individuals and corporations have gone above and beyond – from providing toys, a warm winter coat and boots for each child, to diapers and wipes that often stretch a parent’s budget, our community is making the season brighter for families experiencing homelessness.
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 Parent breakfasts return with more than just food
More than 70 parents turned out for Horizons’ first parents’ breakfast since the pandemic. Information tables featured representatives from partner organizations and Horizons’ staff surveyed attendees to better understand family needs and how Horizons can help meet them. Parents won prizes, enjoyed giveaways and had the opportunity to connect in-person with one another, as well as with the admissions and family partnerships teams who walk alongside them on their journeys. These breakfasts will be held monthly and offer what our families universally need – support and connection. |
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 Making classroom celebrations sweeter, one child at a time
Celebrating milestones in a child’s life like a birthday is a joyous special occasion. But for families experiencing homelessness, the desire to create special memories for their child when funds, space, and time are limited can add strain on a parent, especially those working overtime on career and financial goals to build a better life for their family. “The experience of homelessness is traumatic for young children and we want to help families create childhoods where there’s joy and celebration." <Read more>
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 Form meets Function in the Edgerley Family Horizons Center
“We believe that the families we serve are destined for something better and we’re here to help them and their child achieve it.” The new Edgerley Family Horizons Center was designed to be a warm, welcoming and inspirational space to children and families so they can aspire to something greater than they see in this particular moment of homelessness. It also respects the Horizons workforce who drive the mission by creating spaces that accommodate their needs, honor their cultures, and enrich their sense of well-being. Read on to see how design, colors, décor and artwork (the central piece by local artist Ekua Holmes) work together to fulfill Horizons’ mission. <Read more> |
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Join Horizons' 2022 Boston Marathon Team
Has it always been your dream to run the Boston Marathon? Horizons is seeking enthusiastic, individuals to join our 2022 Boston Marathon team! Click here to learn more about applying.
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As ever, we’re grateful for your readership and welcome your ideas for future content or suggestions for how we can make this newsletter better.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Horizons for Homeless Children!
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