Harvest of Hope 2011
HOW was proud to host our 5th annual meeting, Harvest of Hope, on Thursday, October 27th at Regents Hall at Loyola University’s Water Tower Campus downtown Chicago. “This is a special evening to celebrate a year’s worth of advances made by HOW to end the cycle of poverty and homelessness across Chicago” shared Britt Shawver, HOW CEO to a room full of supporters. She continued with an exciting program announcement that HOW had just been awarded a contract for an additional 100 permanent supportive housing units. “This news significantly increases our current efforts, allowing us to expand our successful Permanent Supportive Housing Program” continued Britt. Nearly 95 percent of HOW’s current program participants either achieve independent permanent housing upon program graduation, or retain their own housing with HOW.
This news was followed by a moving and heartfelt keynote speech by Michelle Saddler, Secretary of the Illinois Department of Human Services. She disclosed her concern over the deep cuts in her department due to the state budget crisis. “This type of cut causes necessary services to be disrupted and crucial human services to not get to those who need them most, including those served by HOW” said Saddler. However, she was quick to point out that there is hope despite the current economic crisis. The Department is proud to partner with HOW in providing intensive case management for nearly two-thirds of all HOW clients. She highlighted the night’s successes as a perfect example perfect example of what keeps her motivated, wanting to do the most good for the most people.
The final and significant portion of the evening’s program came when HOW recognized five clients for their achievements. HOW is proud to support their strides towards self-sufficiency and privileged to be a part of their journey towards independence.
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