We are inspired every day by the care and compassion of our Circle of Hope volunteers. This spring we held a volunteer appreciation event as a way to show our gratitude for their amazing work on behalf of our most vulnerable neighbors. We invited two graduates from Project Hope, "Ambassadors", cousins who each shared their personal stories and inspired us all.

Toddye Anderson Project Hope Ambassador

As you probably know, Project Hope is one of the twenty organizations we partner with to provide clothing and basic necessities directly to women and families. Project Hope Ambassadors speak about their journey from being homeless to complete self-sufficiency.   Toddye Anderson was wearing what she called her "Lucky Suit" as she shared her courageous story with us describing her move from homelessness along her successful career path that included a full scholarship to college. We were transfixed and transformed by her story. Toddye wore her "Lucky Suit" on her first job interview, when she got her first job, and now, years later, still wears it in her growing career at Children's Hospital. That "Lucky Suit," by the way, came from Circle of Hope.

Circle of Hope works hand in hand in partnership with amazing organizations, each doing their part to end homelessness. Together, with your support, we help struggling families by providing essential clothing for dignity and health, alleviating anxiety and fear, and replacing those feelings with confidence and self-assurance. For us, it's giving winter coats so that children can warmly wait for their bus and get to school. It's the business suit we give so a disadvantaged young person or refugee can make a positive impression on a job interview. It's the toiletries and towels we deliver that enable a mother in a domestic violence shelter to care for her family.

Circle of Hope served 50% more children, women, and men this year than last year. We were able to add staffing and resources in order to help more families. In six years, we have delivered $1.7 million in clothing to those who need it most. With your support, we can continue to grow so we can respond to the increase in homelessness in Boston. Will you please thoughtfully consider a gift to support the work of Circle of Hope?