09 Jul The Spirit of Summer

It is a very different summer than those of years past. However, we continue to look for the sunshine and blue skies to uplift our spirits to better cope with the pandemic and systemic racism that plagues our nation.

The Sophia Way hosted a healing vigil in June, inviting our friends from Congregations for the Homeless (CfH) and Friends of Youth to safely stand together against police brutality and share a collective voice for equality. It was a restorative evening bearing hearts and prayers for our country to become anti-racist. Special thanks to Pastor Patty of First Congregational Church, Eric Ballentine of CfH, and Nabrath Sheriff of MAPS/ MCRC for their inspiration, and our own Dietra Clayton for organizing this meaningful evening.

You are helping us operate the shelters and day center from the Red Lion hotel until we are ready to move to Helen’s Place, a new permanent shelter in Kirkland. Nearly complete, the 19,000 square foot facility will offer a day center and emergency shelter on the top floor, with the New Bethlehem Project offering shelter for families on the ground floor. The next 60 days will be spent completing construction and landscaping, purchasing, and installing equipment and furnishings to complete the space. With only $150,000 left to complete the $10M project, we hope you will consider becoming a supporter of our capital campaign to provide the shelter, safety and stability women need to overcome homelessness.

With the uncertainty of the past few months, The Sophia Way looked long and hard at our fall event, pivoting to an inspiring virtual fundraiser set for Tuesday, September 15. You will have time to “meet” with your friends before the event, learn about the resilient and brave women that stay with us, and hear about the impact of your generosity. Mark your calendar today for Sheltering from the Storm and let us know how you would like to be involved.

While we have not been as successful moving women to permanent housing during the pandemic, we still have powerful success stories to share. Amara is one, and you can learn more about her story below.

We say it often because it is true, we are deeply grateful for your support. Your financial donations, gift of supplies, and nutritious meals, continue to lift the spirits of the women and staff every day.

With sincere appreciation,

Alisa Chatinsky
Executive Director