COVID-19 has invaded every aspect of our lives: our activities, our health, our livelihood. Unemployment is at an all-time high. As a leader in our field, St. Francis House takes pride in helping individuals experiencing homelessness rebuild their lives and get back into the workforce.
Unfortunately, many who were benefiting from our programs when the pandemic hit have had their momentum and progress come to a screeching halt.
COVID-19 has disrupted our current programs. The Moving Ahead Program (MAP) provides housing and stipends for students, taking them out of homelessness. And our Dog Care Academy internship provides a substantial stipend which brings them much needed support.
When we had to cancel both programs with little warning, hope fizzled into fear, as many participants were terrified that this health crisis would force them back into homelessness without an opportunity in sight.
We want to assure you: we are here for our students, and pandemic or not, our students can always count on St. Francis House to meet their most pressing needs.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to continue to pay weekly stipends for both MAP students and Dog Care Academy interns and cover housing costs so participants can remain in recovery settings until they are able to come back to St. Francis House and complete their classes.
Thank you to our community for giving us the ability to be there for our guests, students, interns, and our graduates. Amidst this devastating pandemic, together we continue to give people in need opportunity and hope – the foundation for rebuilding lives.
