Staff Spotlight Vic

Vic Schalk, Childcare Coordinator

I’d like to introduce you to our new Childcare Coordinator, Vic Schalk. Vic has a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern Maine. She grew up in rural Maine and was very close to her family. In March of this past year, she made the choice to move to our area.

“It was a leap of faith,” she explained. “It was a difficult choice, but it was the right thing. Everyone here at the Mission has been so supportive, helpful, and welcoming. And I really needed that support. It’s made a big difference to me.”

When she first moved here, she was applying for jobs in the Occupational Therapy field, but she wasn’t getting any callbacks. As she was sitting in the Canonsburg Library one day, trying to figure out what she was going to do for work, she watched a group of little kids walk by in their tiny backpacks, and she suddenly realized that working with our kids here at City Mission was right where she needed to be. “I think it was the tiny backpacks that got me,” she laughed. She had previously worked with kids at a Day Care and Pre-school when she was in college, and she said, “Ok, let’s give this another try. I prayed, the door opened, and I walked through. Our life sometimes comes as a surprise to us, but it never comes as a surprise to the Lord.”

In her previous jobs as an Occupational Therapist, she was doing a lot of good work, working with adults with disabilities who want to continue living at home instead of moving into an assisted living facility. She would create home care programs for them and manage their supports in order to keep them in their homes.

“There were people who had so many problems,” she said of her previous jobs, “and I would offer solutions, but in my role, I wasn’t really allowed to offer them Jesus. There are lots of short-term solutions, but ultimately Jesus is the only way we can overcome our problems. And here at City Mission it literally says, ‘Jesus Saves’ on the front of the building. It’s pretty amazing what the Mission does, sharing Jesus as the cornerstone of recovery. As long as we continue to put Jesus first, it will continue to bear fruit in people’s lives.”

As City Mission’s Childcare Coordinator, Vic watches the children who live in our Women with Children shelter while their moms are working on their recovery: taking classes, going to appointments or meetings, participating in recovery programs, looking for work, or just taking time to work on themselves.

“I’m enabling the moms to focus on what they need to do to get stable, so they can be in a better place for themselves and their kids,” Vic explained.

But she’s also ministering to the children. “I try to create a safe and stable place for the kids,” she said. “I try to model calmness and consistency for them. I try to teach them to be kind and to be good friends to each other and to treat others the way they want to be treated. I try to instill those things into them.”

It’s important to Vic to be in constant communication with the moms about what happens in the childcare area. “At lunchtime, I go and sit with the moms and connect with them. I need to be accountable to them about what’s going on here,” she said. “I try to keep an open communication with them and keep expectations for their kids consistent. I really listen to what the moms have to say, and I’m very open to what they tell me about what works for their kids and what doesn’t work.”

It's also really important to Vic to use local resources to help give the kids meaningful and memorable experiences. Recently, she has started taking the kids down the street to Firefly Gardens, a small green space located in the heart of downtown Washington. It provides an opportunity for our kids to get out in the sun and play in the dirt and the grass. “There are spaces out in the community that can be enriching for our kids in ways that we don’t have for them here on campus,” Vic said.

Her favorite thing about her job is all the growth that she gets to see every day – the growth in all the little kids that come to City Mission’s childcare area, but also growth within herself.

‍Some Fast Facts about Vic

‍Hobbies

Reading, writing, paddleboarding at Peters Lake, and sewing. She recently pulled her sewing machine out of storage, and she’s ready to get to work.

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‍Favorite Books

Persuasion by Jane Austen

Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott

Favorite Kids Book

The Mysterious Benedict Society (she used to work in the Children’s section at the library)

Favorite movies

Star Wars – all the Star Wars movies and tv shows

Favorite tv shows

Great British Baking Show

Favorite Vacations

Weekend trips to Acadia National Park

A family vacation to Singapore

July 31, 2024

Gary Porter

Communications Manager

Gary has been with the mission since 2017. He writes many of our resident stories, getting to know many of them and seeing their transformations at the mission from the start.

gporter@citymission.org

Relapse Prevention During the Holidays

November 26, 2024

The holiday season can be a time of celebration, joy, and togetherness for many, but for those in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, it can also be extremely challenging. Holiday festivities often involve alcohol, high-stress situations, and a break from daily routines, which can all, unfortunately, increase the risk of relapse. According to Narconon.org, the relapse rate for drugs and alcohol spikes at least 150% during the holiday season. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that the number alcohol and drug related fatalities on the road increases by up to 50% during the holidays. “Many of our residents will struggle with this time of the year,” said Brad Nelson, City Mission’s Manager of Veterans Services, who teaches a Holiday Relapse Prevention course to all of our residents who will be going home for the holidays. “We try to support them during this time with our Relapse Prevention Group. We try to identify the problems, and then we try to provide them with solutions. If you’re actively working a program of recovery, you’re going to be in a lot better place, and you’re going to be a lot safer.” Why the Holiday Season Increases the Risk of Relapse The holiday season is often filled with a mix of emotions, both positive and negative, and several factors can contribute to increased vulnerability for relapse: 1. Social Pressure and Temptation During the holidays, there is a greater emphasis on social gatherings, parties, and celebrations. For individuals recovering from addiction, these events can present a variety of challenges. Alcohol and drugs may be present, and the pressure to fit in can be intense. Old habits can resurface, especially for someone who feels isolated, disconnected, or vulnerable. 2. Stress and Anxiety The holidays can, unfortunately, bring about significant stress. From family dynamics to financial concerns, managing personal expectations, or feeling the pressure to be joyful, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. The emotional toll of dealing with family expectations, travel, or even memories of past holiday experiences associated with past trauma or substance abuse can cause vulnerability. For some, stress and anxiety can manifest as anger. Nelson explains, “Often times, anger is an issue for people in early recovery. It can even become a replacement for drugs. You can get euphoria from anger, so sometimes people will replace anger for their drug of choice.” 3. Loneliness and Isolation While the holidays are supposed to be a time for togetherness, many individuals in recovery experience loneliness or alienation. This feeling of isolation can be especially prevalent for those who are newly sober or distanced from family or friends. Many who are new to recovery choose to avoid friends and families specifically because they know there will be alcohol or drugs at holiday parties, but then that loneliness can lead some to relapse as they try to fill the emotional void they’re experiencing. “Loneliness can be extremely painful,” Nelson explained. “People who suffer from addiction often have a spiritual void, and even being around people or friends, they can still experience loneliness. We try to help them fill that void.” 4. Nostalgia and Triggers from the Past The holidays often evoke memories of past celebrations, some of which may have been filled with trauma or substance abuse. For many individuals, their relationship with drugs or alcohol may have been tied to holiday traditions, making it even more challenging to avoid relapse. The sights, smells, and sounds of the season can trigger cravings and emotions tied to these past experiences. 5. Lack of Routine and Structure For those in recovery, maintaining a daily routine and structure is vital to preventing relapse. During the holiday season, normal schedules are often disrupted with vacations, family gatherings, and time off from work. This lack of structure can lead to a sense of unpredictability or anxiety, which may cause someone to fall back into unhealthy behavior patterns or turn to substances to cope. Coping with the Holiday Season: Tips for Maintaining Sobriety The good news is that while the holiday season can undoubtedly be a challenging time for those in recovery, it’s also an opportunity to take proactive steps to protect one’s sobriety. “I believe,” said Nelson, “there’s only two reasons why people relapse. They are because they wanted to or because they didn’t get enough help.” At City Mission, we provide our residents the help they need during the holidays. Our Holiday Relapse Prevention group and our Safe Pass Plan program help our residents maintain their recovery during the holidays by helping them identify potential triggers and challenges and offering them tools and strategies to keep them safe. Here are some of those strategies: 1.Have a Sobriety Plan Having a detailed sobriety plan for the holidays is crucial. This plan can include strategies for handling difficult emotions, navigating social situations, or managing cravings. Having an exit strategy for situations that feel unsafe can help you stay in control and avoid making decisions that may jeopardize your recovery. At City Mission, before our residents leave for the holidays, they are required to create a Safe Pass Plan with their case manager. “Just because you’re in recovery, you don’t have to avoid weddings or anniversaries or concerts,” said Nelson. “You can do all the things that other people do provided that you are spiritually fit and have a plan.” • Communicate your needs: Let family, friends, or colleagues know about your recovery and ask for their support in creating a sober-friendly environment. • Set limits on social events: If you’re attending a party or gathering, know your limits ahead of time. Identify people who are likely to be at these events and people that it would be better avoid. • Have a plan for uncomfortable situations: Think through potential challenges you might face and how you’ll handle them and who you will contact if you need help. 2.Create a Support System “You should be attending meetings,” Nelson said. “You should have a sponsor and contact your sponsor every day.” One of the most crucial components of staying clean and sober during the holidays is having a solid support system. Surround yourself with friends, family, or fellow members of a support group who love you and want the best for you and who understand the challenges of recovery. Having someone to talk to or rely on during times of stress or temptation can make a significant difference in staying sober. • Attend support meetings: Many 12-step meetings and recovery programs remain active throughout the holidays. Make it a priority to attend these meetings. • Check in regularly: Whether it’s a daily text, phone call, or video chat, keep the lines of communication open with your support system. This provides emotional support and helps you stay connected to your recovery goals. 3. Pray “Addiction affects you biologically, mentally, and socially,” Nelson explained, “but the solution is spiritual. We know that Jesus is the answer. If you build a recovery program based on God and continue to work the program, we believe that you will have a successful recovery and a successful holiday.” Strengthening your relationship with God can create gratitude, purpose, peace, and fulfillment, which can all give you a deeper sense of value in your life and can give you the inner strength to make better choices. 4. Avoid Negative People, Places, and Things “There’s an old saying,” said Nelson, “if you hang out in a barbershop, sooner or later, you’re going to get a haircut.” If you continue to return to the same people, places, and things that you used to fill your life with when you were in active addiction, then you’re likely to eventually fall back into the same old habits. Instead of focusing on the holidays as they were in the past, try to create new, sober traditions that bring joy and meaning to your life. This could include volunteering, engaging in new hobbies, or spending time with loved ones in a different way. By focusing on positive and healthy activities, you can redefine what the holidays mean to you, separating them from the negative memories of substance abuse. 5. Remember Your Why During moments of temptation or doubt, it’s important to remember why you are in recovery in the first place. Reflecting on the benefits of sobriety—such as better health, improved relationships, or a clearer mind—can provide the strength needed to resist urges. Writing down your reasons for staying sober and keeping that list visible can serve as a powerful reminder during moments of weakness. 6. Celebrate Your Progress Recovery is a journey, and it’s important to take time to celebrate your milestones, no matter how small. During the holiday season, reflect on how far you’ve come in your recovery and the strength you’ve gained. Recognize your achievements and be grateful for the hard work you’ve put into staying sober. Conclusion The holiday season is often a time of joy, connection, and celebration. However, for those in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction, it can also be a period of increased vulnerability to relapse. But if you create a plan, surround yourself with the right people, and deepen your relationship with God, then you can have a safe and joyful holiday season! Click HERE if you would like to support City Mission’s ministry of bringing hope to homeless this holiday season.

Homelessness and the Holidays

November 21, 2024

15,000. That's the number of people without homes on any given day in Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. These aren't just numbers; they represent individuals and families without a home. The contrast is stark – while many decorate their homes and prepare festive meals, others seek shelter and wonder where their next meal will come from. This disparity reminds us of our communities' urgent need for compassion and action. Challenges for the Homeless During the Holidays The holiday season often amplifies the daily challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. In places like Washington, PA, dropping temperatures bring the harsh realities of winter, intensifying the struggle for warmth and shelter. Homeless individuals frequently face increased health risks and emotional stress during this time. At City Mission, we encounter unique challenges during the holidays as well. During the holidays, we work tirelessly to provide basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing and offer a sense of holiday spirit, faith, and community to those we serve. But, the increased demand for our services stretches our resources. Five Ways to Help During the Holiday Season Meeting these needs demands considerable support – from volunteers, donations, and community involvement. If you're seeking ways to contribute this holiday season, here are several options for you to consider: 1. Financial Contributions • Monetary donations play a crucial role in enabling City Mission to sustain our work. These contributions help cover operating costs and facilitate transformation by providing food, shelter, case management, biblically-based counseling, and life-changing programs. We are committed to restoring the whole person through a Christ-centered approach that expresses God's love for them. 2. Participate in our Angel Tree Program • Christmas is a time of giving. Through our Angel Tree program, you can make the holidays special for our residents. This program lists items that can be collected at your workplace or purchased through City Mission's Angel Tree Amazon Wishlist. These gifts are more than items; they are a message of care and remembrance. 3. Donate Warm Clothing and Essentials • Winters in Washington, PA, can be brutally cold. We encourage our community to donate warm clothing items like coats, gloves, scarves, hats, and socks. Essentials such as blankets, sleeping bags, and hygiene products are also vital. Your donations provide physical warmth and the comfort of knowing someone cares. 4. Volunteer • Volunteering at City Mission is a profound way to put your faith into action. We welcome individuals and groups to share their time, talents, and treasures. Whether serving meals, organizing donations, or spending time with our residents, every act of service makes a significant difference. 5. Offer Specialized Services • If you have specific skills or services, we can benefit from your expertise. Professionals such as counselors, tutors, healthcare providers, or anyone with a skill to share can significantly impact our residents' lives. Join Us in Spreading Hope and Warmth This Holiday Season Reflecting on James 2:14-17, it's clear that our faith calls us to action, especially during the holiday season. This time of year presents a unique opportunity to extend our hands and hearts to those in need, embodying true giving and compassion. At City Mission, we witness the impact of these acts of kindness daily. They provide immediate help and bring hope, faith and a sense of community. We invite you to join us in making a difference this holiday season, whether through volunteering, donating, or sharing this message of hope. We deeply appreciate your generosity and continued support. You can also send donations to the following address: 84 W. Wheeling Street, Washington, PA 15301. For more details on donations or if you have any questions, feel free to call us at (724) 222-8530.

Homelessness and the Holidays

November 21, 2024

As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to family gatherings, festive meals, and joyous celebrations. However, for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, this time of year can bring unique challenges and heightened difficulties. The contrast between societal expectations of holiday cheer and the harsh realities faced by those without stable housing can be particularly pronounced. Understanding the Scope of Homelessness in Pennsylvania Before we delve into the holiday-specific challenges, it’s important to understand the broader context of homelessness within Pennsylvania: Statewide Impact: • In 2023, Pennsylvania's homelessness rate was 9.7 per 10,000 people, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable individuals across the state. • Eighty-six percent of people experiencing homelessness in Pennsylvania are considered "sheltered," meaning they are living in shelters, transitional housing, or receiving assistance, but still without a permanent place to call home. • Diverse Populations are impacted. Homelessness in Pennsylvania affects families with children, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. • Factors driving homelessness in Pennsylvania include job loss, lack of affordable housing, mental illness, substance abuse, and domestic violence. By understanding the scope of the problem and how we can act, we can bring hope to our neighbors in need during this season of giving. Holiday-Specific Challenges The holidays bring additional hardships for those experiencing homelessness, beyond the challenges they already face throughout the year. 1. Emotional and Psychological Strain The holiday season emphasizes family, home, and togetherness, which can heighten feelings of isolation and depression for those without stable housing. The expectation of joy and celebration often stands in stark contrast to the lived experiences of many homeless individuals, leading to increased emotional strain. How You Can Help: • Volunteer Your Time: Spend time at shelters like City Mission or community centers, offering companionship and emotional support to those who may feel disconnected. • Support Mental Health Initiatives: Encourage programs that provide counseling and mental health services to those experiencing homelessness in Pennsylvania. 2. Harsh Weather Conditions In Pennsylvania, winters can be unforgiving, and temperatures during the holiday season can be particularly harsh. For those without adequate shelter, exposure to cold weather brings increased risks of hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related health issues. How You Can Help: • Donate Winter Gear: Items such as waterproof coats, thermal underwear, wool socks, and sleeping bags are essential for helping homeless individuals stay warm. At City Mission we accept clothing, shoes/boots and clothing accessories at any of our thrift stores from 9am-4pm, our vocational training center from 9am-3pm, or any of our area donation bins . • Advocate for Year-Round Solutions: Help promote the development of more permanent housing options to ensure individuals aren’t left vulnerable to the weather. 3. Limited Access to Resources Many support services experience reduced schedules or resources during the holidays, making it harder for homeless individuals to access food, shelter, and other essentials. This can leave people in particularly dire situations as the need for basic necessities increases during winter. How You Can Help: • Spread Awareness of Available Resources: Ensure that homeless individuals are aware of which services remain open during the holidays by volunteering to distribute information or helping shelters communicate with the broader community. • Volunteer at Shelters During Holidays: Offering your time can ensure that shelters and essential services continue to operate smoothly during the holidays. • Support Continuity: Donate to shelters or nonprofits that provide continuous support throughout the year, particularly during times when resources are stretched. 4. Economic Challenges and Financial Exclusion For homeless individuals, economic struggles are a year-round challenge, but the holidays can amplify these difficulties. While many are focused on holiday shopping and gift-giving, homeless individuals often struggle just to meet their basic needs, let alone provide gifts for their families. How You Can Help: • Support Employment and Training Programs: Contribute to programs that offer job skills and long-term employment opportunities for individuals who are homeless. • Donate Gift Cards for Essentials: Gift cards for groceries or clothing stores can offer families dignity and the opportunity to provide for their children during the holidays. Making a Lasting Impact: Beyond the Holidays While it’s important to offer support during the holidays, homelessness is a year-round issue that requires long-term solutions. We are called to extend our compassion and generosity throughout the entire year, not just during festive seasons. Ways to Make a Lasting Impact: • Join City Mission’s Circle of Bread and Hope: Our Circle of Bread and Hope is a group of compassionate, community-focused supporters who commit to making a lasting and ongoing impact for the homeless in our area. You can make a BIG impact with a small, recurring gift. You can choose to give monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually – whichever method works best for you. • Stay Informed: Educate yourself and others on the root causes of homelessness and effective strategies for prevention and support. • Commit to Year-Round Volunteering: Make a long-term commitment to volunteer with local shelters and service providers to offer ongoing support. • Foster Community Partnerships: Encourage collaboration between churches, businesses, and government agencies to create a comprehensive safety net for the homeless. A Call to Compassionate Action The holiday season reminds us of our shared humanity and the importance of loving and serving one another. As followers of Christ, we are called to care for those in need, reflecting His love in everything we do. The barriers faced by homeless individuals during the holidays are significant, but through compassionate action, we can make a meaningful difference. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or advocating for change, each of us can contribute to making this holiday season a little brighter for individuals and families struggling with homelessness. You can offer our hurting neighbors healing and hope here at City Mission. Your gift provides the immediate help and long-term care local men, women, children and veterans need to rebuild their lives.

The Costs of Homelessness

October 31, 2024

Homelessness is a challenge that goes far beyond those who lack a place to call home. After seeing a gradual decline for over a decade, 2022 marked a 12% increase in homeless individuals across the United States. In 2023, while homelessness in Pennsylvania actually decreased slightly, the crisis across the country experienced another uptick, reaching record high numbers. According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, 2024 is trending toward the highest number of homeless since the government started tracking homelessness data in 2007. All of this applies great pressure on local communities and families and prompts many to reconsider how they view this issue. As we approach 2025, homelessness remains a growing concern, and the need for compassionate, proactive solutions is more urgent than ever. Let’s take a closer look at seven ways homelessness deeply impacts society as a whole and how City Mission is working to restore our local community. These costs to the community aren’t just financial—they affect our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, reminding us that we are all connected in our need for care and support. 1. Homelessness Takes a Toll on Physical Health When we think of homelessness, physical health often comes to mind first. Without consistent access to food, water, and shelter, individuals experience hunger, thirst, and exposure to harsh elements. Over time, this can lead to severe illness, injury, or worse. Homeless individuals are also at greater risk of assault, substance abuse, and untreated mental health issues, which further complicate their physical condition. Their vulnerability is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of caring for one another. That is why our medical clinic provides initial medical assessments for every resident, connects them to medical insurance providers, and offers them a Primary Care Physician option on campus through our partnership with Centerville Clinics. We also offer transportation to medical appointments and support with medication regimens. 2. Mental Health Struggles Are Exacerbated Mental health is a significant concern for those experiencing homelessness. Studies show that the homeless population faces twice the rate of mental illness compared to the general public. Without a stable home, individuals may grapple with feelings of hopelessness, guilt, and despair. When untreated, these emotions can spiral into chronic depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or even suicide. These mental health struggles don’t just affect individuals—they ripple out in many ways, impacting the mental wellness of the broader community. At City Mission, each of our residents has a case manager who offers love, compassion, and grace, and also helps them to identify the barriers that led them to homelessness while connecting them to resources that assist them in navigating their way through those barriers toward peace, independence, and fulfillment. 3. Economic Challenges Trap Individuals in Homelessness Each person experiencing homelessness has a unique story of how they arrived at this difficult point. For many, financial instability plays a large role. Whether due to sudden job loss or a family crisis, these situations often escalate when housing costs become unmanageable. Without a stable address or proof of income, finding a job or securing a place to live becomes an uphill battle, creating a cycle that can be incredibly difficult, even impossible without support, to break. Our Career Training and Education Center helps our residents obtain identification documents. We offer career assessments, work readiness programming, job-related certifications, as well as resume-building and job-search assistance. All in an effort to help them find meaningful careers and leave behind the financial struggles that may have contributed to their descent into homelessness. Ultimately, the outcome of this support is to create strong, courageous, and capable individuals who can give back to society in any number of ways. 4. Social Isolation Deepens the Hardship The emotional and social consequences of homelessness run deep. Families are often torn apart, leaving children to grow up without a stable home environment. Many of these children will face lifelong emotional scars from their experiences with abuse, food insecurity, foster care, extreme stress, and inconsistent education. Many homeless individuals, despite being harmless, are stigmatized as dangerous or undesirable by the general public, further alienating them from society. Laws that criminalize homelessness—by pushing people out of public spaces or forcing them to move on to other towns rather than offering help—only add to the emotional burden, making it even harder for those suffering to find their way back. At City Mission, we surround every one of our residents with love and compassion. They learn to build new relationships and re-establish broken relationships with friends and family. We also help them establish or rediscover a life-changing relationship with Christ and find a church community that can surround them with Christ’s love while creating an ongoing social and support network. 5. Strain on the Healthcare System Without regular access to preventative healthcare, homeless individuals often rely on costly emergency services to address chronic conditions, injuries, or mental health crises. Emergency rooms are not equipped to handle the long-term care these individuals require, leading to recurring visits that strain the healthcare system. This overuse of emergency services raises costs for everyone and diverts resources from others who may need urgent care. This is why our Medical Clinic is such a crucial aspect of our residents’ recovery. We educate our homeless residents about their options so that their experiences with the medical system are less overwhelming, and they are empowered to take charge of their own physical health. 6. Impact on Public Safety and Legal Systems In some cases, homelessness can unfortunately lead to criminal activity, not out of malice, but out of desperation to survive. Petty theft, drug-related offenses, or minor altercations may occur when individuals are struggling to meet their most basic needs. This situation places added pressure on law enforcement, court systems, and public safety resources, which are already stretched thin. By providing for the basic needs of our residents and showing them love and kindness, we give them the hope that they need to trust they can have a bright future. We also help connect them to resources that will assist them to navigate any past legal issues so that they don’t feel trapped by their past mistakes. 7. The Economic Impact on Communities The ripple effects of homelessness extend throughout entire communities. Homelessness can negatively affect property values, local businesses, schools, and the economy as a whole. Beyond the visible strain on public services like law enforcement and healthcare, homelessness also impacts tourism, the local job market, and the overall well-being of neighborhoods. The costs to society are significant, but they are preventable when we work together toward solutions. Successful City Mission residents graduate our program with stable housing, meaningful work, sustainable incomes, and a thriving spiritual life. They go on to become business owners or employees at local businesses. They attend local churches. They continue their education. They attend local recovery meetings and become mentors for those struggling with addiction. They lead Bible studies. They volunteer. They pay taxes. They build strong families who weave their way into the fabric of our local community. They are helping to build Washington into a recovery town, a place of hope for those who are in despair. Start Small to Make a Big Difference The true cost of homelessness goes far beyond numbers; it touches the very heart of human dignity. This is a social challenge that affects us all, whether directly or indirectly. Addressing the root causes of homelessness and providing support for those in need is not only a moral responsibility, but it’s also essential to building stronger communities. As we reflect on this issue, let’s take inspiration from the compassion Christ showed to the hurting and the hungry. He saw beyond outward appearances and recognized the inherent worth of every person. In the same way, we are called to offer help, whether through a warm meal, a kind word, or simply acknowledging the humanity of those we pass by each day. We don’t need to solve the problem alone—but we can each take small steps. Please consider donating today and help us make a difference in the lives of those seeking hope and a better future. Every donation, big or small, helps us fulfill this mission and bring light to those in need.

It Ends Here

October 24, 2024

Did you know that October is Domestic Violence Awareness month? Unfortunately, domestic violence is much more common than you might expect. The statistics are absolutely gut-wrenching. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, more than 12 million people in the United States suffer from abuse every year at the hands of an intimate partner. That means that every minute, 24 people experience intimate partner violence in the US. Astoundingly, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 41% of all the women in the US have experienced domestic violence at some point in their lifetime. It's absolutely heartbreaking. Many of our residents here at City Mission have experienced domestic violence. Many actually came to the Mission to escape violent relationships. “The recent statistics regarding the correlation between domestic violence and homelessness are staggering,” said City Mission’s Manager of Women’s Services, Lisa Rotello. “It was reported that 38% of domestic violence survivors become homeless at some point in their lives. More disturbing is that 90% of homeless women have experienced severe physical or sexual abuse at some point in their lives.” Here at City Mission, we’re intentionally developing partnerships with local resources to help our residents build strong and healthy relationships. Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA (DVSSP) is a local nonprofit organization whose mission is to end domestic violence by empowering survivors, raising awareness, and creating safer communities. They are finding new and creative ways to support men and women in the community who need their services. Allison Weakland, DVSSP’s Director of Mobile Advocacy and Empowerment, recently came to City Mission to teach a domestic violence class for our residents. The thoughtfully-prepared and engaging class met once a week for six weeks. The class averaged between 15-20 women. The six sessions covered the following topics: 1. 5 Types of Abuse 2. Warning Signs 3. Barriers to Leaving 4. Tactics people use to Make you Stay in Abusive Relationships 5. What Healthy Relationships Look Like 6. Self-worth and Self-care “The staff and volunteers at DVSSP are truly the experts in the field,” said Leah Dietrich, City Mission’s Director of Residential Programs. “It’s powerful to see what they’re doing to stop the cycle of abuse. They are doing the “It Ends Here” work.” “Healthy relationships are so important for City Mission residents in their recovery,” she added. “So what DVSSP is doing for us is so crucial. We are very pleased with how everything is coming together.” DVSSP started 40 years ago with one person answering one phone. Today, they have two safe houses and serve residents in three counties. They are helping domestic violence survivors make the turn from surviving to thriving. “We try to give them the opportunity to live their best life now that they don’t have someone trying to pull them down,” said Weakland. Weakland and her Mobile Advocacy and Empowerment team provide free and confidential services to community members who have experienced domestic violence. They do awareness classes, one-on-one empowerment sessions, medical advocacy, and other services in person or virtually. They help create safety plans, gather financial resources, connect people with housing case management and trauma therapy, and help navigate through all the barriers holding people back from escaping abusive relationships or restoring their lives after experiencing abuse. DVSSP will return to City Mission regularly to conduct more 6-week classes as new residents enter our program. They are also conducting a class specifically for our male residents. The class provides an overview of domestic violence but also provides strategies for how men can get involved in preventing and ending domestic violence in their communities. “These classes,” said Rotello, “offer a direct application of tools, provide a support network, encourage the utilization of additional community services, and allow for a place of refuge and validation for people who are desperately in need of spiritual and emotional repair.” We believe that City Mission’s ongoing partnership with DVSSP will continue to produce life-change and will continue to uplift those who have survived abuse. “The classes provided by DVSSP have proven to be an integral part of our resident’s ability to build a foundation of safety, education, empowerment and resiliency,” explained Rotello. “With safety as a primary concern for our population, in general, we need to continue demonstrating the availability of compassion, support and acceptance, without discrimination, to those who experience this extremely damaging dynamic.” You can change a life. You can make a difference. Visit www.citymission.org/donate to learn how you can help the homeless and the hurting today.

Dr. Sally Mounts to Retire on September 30, 2024

Dr. Sally Mounts with Dean Gartland at the Groundbreaking Ceremony for Sally's Sanctuary

September 27, 2024

“Sally Mounts is tenacious in her determination to move the mission forward through her tireless efforts to find funding,” declared Leah Dietrich, City Mission’s Director of Residential Programs. “Her efforts and the work of her team have led to rejuvenating buildings, building new spaces and creating a place where those most in need can call home. She is a tireless advocate for our work and for our team.” With 11 years of dedicated service, Dr. Mounts is officially retiring as City Mission’s Chief Development Officer on September 30. She first started at the Mission as a contracted grants writer. President/CEO, Dean Gartland, quickly noticed her abundant talents and energy, and brought Sally on staff as Director of Development. “Hiring Sally was the best decision I ever made for the Mission,” said Gartland. “Sally was the driving force behind City Mission from a fundraising standpoint.” During Dr. Mounts’ tenure at City Mission, the Mission’s yearly budget grew from $2.5 million to $9 million as the Mission expanded from a 96-bed facility to a 174-bed facility with four distinct shelters, a medical clinic, and a career training and education center. Through it all, Dr. Mounts has been a tireless warrior for City Mission. “I know the Mission has been blessed by Sally’s service in Christ’s name, and I too have been blessed to learn from her vast knowledge and have a great foundation to continue the work for City Mission going forward,” said City Mission’s Director of Development, Trisha Schum. “She has been a mentor that I have learned so much from, and also a great example of how Christ works through people to do His Great Work.” Dr. Mounts, a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the US Army and a former Veterans’ Affairs Program Director with a PhD in Psychology from Yeshiva University, has proven to be an incredible asset to City Mission. Her energy, compassion, and leadership has inspired those around her. “Sally is a unique and caring person with a strong dedication and love for the Mission,” said Chris Rogers, City Mission’s Event Manager. “Her kindness and generosity show through in everything she does. I have learned so much from her.” “Working with Dr. Sally Mounts,” added Major Donor Officer, Shelby Lonce, “has been an extraordinary privilege. Her deep compassion, Christ-centered leadership, and relentless dedication to helping those in need have made a lasting impact on both City Mission and me personally. She is not only an exceptional professional but also a mentor and friend who inspires me daily with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith.” Dr. Mounts’ hard work, enthusiasm, and devotion to the Mission has not gone unnoticed, and her legacy of faith and hard work will carry on. “Sally’s House,” the Mission’s new home for their women’s next-step program will bear her name moving forward as well as “Sally’s Sanctuary,” which will be the name of the Mission’s new 50-bed women’s shelter, which is currently under construction and is scheduled to be completed in July of 2025. Trisha Schum has been selected as Director of Development to carry on Dr. Mounts’ legacy. Schum was previously Director of Marketing and Communications at City Mission, and she brings to this position experience, including a vast marketing background in a variety of industries. She has managed such brands as Rubbermaid, Foodsaver, Ball canning jars, Glidden paint, and American Greetings over her career. Schum certainly has large shoes to fill, but she brings experience, determination, and a passion for the work of City Mission. Along with the Mission’s Development team, she will lead the charge to carry on the torch that Dr. Mounts has kept lit for over a decade.

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Dr. Sally Mounts to Retire on September 30, 2024