To everyone who has supported EPH and the families with children we serve by your prayers, time, talents and treasure, I would like to say thank you. Thank you for helping EPH
to be here
so that we can serve those in need during difficult and critical times. You have made a difference.
With the environment we are in during the COVID-19 pandemic, I wanted to update you with what is going on at EPH. Although our business office is physically closed, and we cannot allow volunteers to serve during this time due to social distancing and #SaferAtHome guidelines, we are not an agency closing our doors. We are here helping families with children experiencing or at-risk of homelessness as much as ever, just a little differently.
Although our families are struggling with job loss, lack of public transportation, and managing childcare with schools closed; as well as the stress, isolation and fear as a result of these things, they are in a good place with EPH programs and our support.
All 20 of our transitional homes are full. The Salvation Army, Golden House and EPH are actively case managing families. We are helping them navigate things such as filing unemployment, budgeting, parenting skills during this school-at-home time, health and planning for move-outs. Merry Meals continue to be made by amazing partnership church volunteers and delivered weekly by EPH.
In our David homes (long-term supportive housing), we are in constant contact with increased case management with 12 families as they also navigate these uncertain times. We are completing rehabs on two homes with families scheduled to move in in April and May.
Our Prevention families have new barriers they are experiencing each day due to the environment we are in. We are working with families to navigate through all of this, including working with landlords. We also placed a family who was living in a motel with a landlord last week!
We have had individuals reach out specifically to support the good work we are continuing to do during this time.
My prayers during these weeks have been not just for EPH families, but for all of you as well. My hope is you are all safe and well, however, I know some of you may be experiencing many of the same things during this time: job loss, managing childcare/home schooling, caring for someone who is sick or maybe you are ill yourself. Please know that I care about you and pray for your well-being.
In the midst of crisis, there is always hope. The above is only a portion of what we are experiencing and doing at EPH. Together, with all of you, we are making and will continue to make a difference, one family at a time.
In gratitude and with a sincere heart,
Julie Aderhold
Executive Director