Wanda Demeke, Director of Program Services at Charis House, gave an interesting talk last night before the Heritage Lions in Hoagland. Charis House is a faith-based division of The Rescue Mission in Fort Wayne that helps homeless women. From their website: “We offer resources that can provide emergency housing, food, and healthcare services, as well as help with job training, education, and childcare. Building a network of support is crucial, and connecting with other families who have faced similar challenges can provide a sense of community and empowerment. It is also important to prioritize self-care and mental health, seeking counseling or therapy if needed.”
Charis House houses some 33 women each night, 26 without children who sleep 4-6 in a room, and 7 more private rooms for women with young children. The women stay as long as they need to learn new skills and regain their independence. Daily check-ins are required. All of the women are required to help with the day-to-day operation of the facility. Work skills are facilitated by the Blue Jacket organization.
Charis House relies completely upon donations from the public. Their greatest need is for supplies, such as diapers, personal care products, t-shirts, leggings, towels and washcloths. Treasure House at 10202 Coldwater Road accepts donations, along with a Thrift Shop to aid the homeless. Eighty-five cents of every dollar donated is used in assisting these homeless women.
The Heritage Lions are in the process of collecting personal care items (such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, women’s razors), towels and wash cloths, t-shirts, and other materials to aid Charis House as they assist women experiencing homelessness. If you wish to contribute to this project, please contact Cindy Wolf at speedywolf54@gmail.com.
Together We Serve: Our mission is to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs. The Heritage Lions motto is “We Serve” and we welcome anyone who wishes to help their local community to contact a Heritage Lion.
