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Community Heroes
GILEAD HOUSE: A PLACE OF HOPE AND EMPOWERMENT
By: Janet Carter | June 2, 2022
Gilead House began in 1999, after many months of research, planning, and fundraising. The name Gilead was chosen as it refers to a region in ancient Israel set aside as a place of refuge and healing. The name seemed to describe perfectly the Marin County home offered to families in need with the mission to inspire hope and empower homeless single moms and their children toward financial stability and independence.
Since the first three families moved into Gilead House in October of 1999, Gilead House has served more than 100 women and their children through a vast team of dedicated staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to support resident families striving for personal and economic stability. Today, Gilead House provides housing, support, and learning opportunities for up to twelve families at two locations in Novato.
The women who reside at Gilead House come from diverse and often traumatic backgrounds and experiences. All have been homeless or are at risk of being homeless. Most have experienced domestic violence, job loss, mental illness, or are recovering from substance abuse or difficulties that have left them economically and emotionally vulnerable with no stable place to live.
They come in need of hope, stability, and a place to heal. They come with an expressed desire to end the path of homelessness they’ve been on and develop the capabilities needed to provide for themselves and their children. Wanting a second chance, they turn to Gilead House for a safe, sober, and stable living and learning environment from which they can develop the skills needed to better their lives.
Through hard work and the support of a loving community, moms leave Gilead House with a sense of purpose, improved economic self-sufficiency, and hope for a better future for their family. Best told by them, Real Moms Real Stories testifies to their incredible impact. Here is Kendra’s story.
KENDRA'S STORY
Kendra is not a stranger to the debilitating effects of homelessness. Since her daughter was born, she has bounced around from place to place, estranged from family, struggling to find a place to call home. Last year she moved to Marin County to live with a friend, and when that relationship failed, she had no place to turn. Even with two part-time jobs, it was impossible to afford rent, pay for childcare, and feed her family.
"Before I came to Gilead House, I didn't believe that someone would hire me for a better job."
When Kendra came to Gilead House she was stressed out, struggling to find housing, and unable to “get things together on her own.” Having a stable place to live gave her hope, peace of mind, and the opportunity to receive assistance. Along with her mentor and staff, she developed a plan for a higher-paying job and changed the course of her professional life.
As a result of her participation in the CalWORKs program, Kendra now has a job that she is proud of: a bank teller. She is learning new skills, making a higher wage, and has opportunities for advancement. In the future, she would like to go back to school and earn a degree in finance.
Upcoming SMMC and Gilead House Events:
June 4: Project Serve, Family Volunteer Opportunity
June 26: Family Dinner, Donate a Dish
Learn more about the great work that Gilead House is doing for moms and children in our community HERE.
Janet Carter serves on the SMMC board as Director of Philanthropy. She is committed to helping members learn more about the wonderful organizations in Marin that support children, youth, mothers, and families. You can volunteer for events through the calendar or contact Janet at janetsmmc@gmail.com.
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Gilead House: A Place of Hope and Empowerment Read >>
Golf for Father’s Day Read >>
How to See Through the Eyes of Love — An Easy Daily Mantra Read >>
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