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As the year comes to a close and the holiday season approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on the joy and warmth this time brings to many. For so many of us, it’s a season filled with gatherings, shared meals, and cozy moments. However, this reality is far from the experience of our neighbors who are facing homelessness.

While many are looking forward to family feasts, countless individuals and families in our community are struggling to find their next meal or a safe place to sleep. Some are wondering how they will spend another night on the cold ground, far from the comfort we often take for granted.

I absolutely couldn’t imagine my life without Harford Family House.- Alecia, Resident

You have the power to make a difference. A donation of $25, $100, $500, or any amount you can contribute can provide crucial support. This year, Harford Family House and the Emergency Shelter have united in our mission to eliminate homelessness in our community, serving both individuals and families. Together, we can create lasting change, but we can’t do it without your support.

Every $25 donation will provide one night of shelter for someone in need, whether it’s an individual, a mother, a father, or a child at our Emergency Shelter or our transitional housing. We need your support!

As the holidays approach and the colder weather sets in, your support means the world to those who are struggling. With your generosity, we can help our neighbors face the future with hope, knowing they have a safe and warm place to stay.

Thank you for considering a gift to support those experiencing homelessness this season. Your kindness makes a profound impact on our community. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season!

Warm regards,

Robin Tomechko, CEO

Frank Kellner, HFH Board Chair

The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and community; a sentiment we carry into everything we do at Harford Family House. For families experiencing homelessness, the holidays can be an extremely challenging and isolating time, which is why we go the extra mile to create moments of warmth and celebration for our residents. 

When devastation strikes a family and pushes them into homelessness, Harford Family House works to rebuild trust and hope within those affected. The holidays offer opportunities for the HFH team to create community amongst our residents, helping them to feel valued, respected, and cared for. 

To build anticipation for the holiday season, we deliver donated Christmas trees to each of the families in our care shortly after Thanksgiving. They are then invited to fill out a Christmas Wishlist of items they would like to see under the tree on Christmas morning. Thanks to our generous donors, the wish lists are fulfilled and gifted to the residents later in December. 

Harford Family House also hosts a Kid’s Holiday Workshop on-site for the youth we serve. With community donations, this festive event allows children to choose gifts for their parents while enjoying holiday crafts, music, Christmas movies, gingerbread house decorating, and more. Our dedicated volunteers offer stations for gift wrapping, refreshments, and Christmas card crafting. This cherished event is one that both HFH staff and the children we serve look forward to every year. 

Continuing the festivities, HFH hosts a Christmas party for all residents in our transitional and permanent supportive housing programs. This celebration includes a holiday dinner, music, games, pictures with Santa, crafts, and more! It provides families with a much-needed break from daily stressors, offering them a chance to connect with others in similar circumstances. At this event, residents find a sense of belonging and joy, free from judgment, even if only for a few hours. 

At our Emergency Shelter, residents are offered a hot Christmas dinner prepared by Bel Air Church. On Christmas morning, they wake up to gift bags filled with thoughtful items like hats, gloves, chapstick, and gift cards for restaurants or gas stations. These small gestures go a long way for our residents, offering both practical support and a sense of holiday comfort. 

While these events bring joy to our residents, we see them as just one part of our commitment to making our neighbors feel supported during the holidays. During a season that emphasizes togetherness, we rally behind our residents to ensure they feel valued. It’s only through the generosity of our community that we can create a magical holiday season that serves as the foundation for continued support all year long. 

At Harford Family House, we are blessed to have the support of such a dedicated and selfless group of volunteers. Their contributions to our mission and those we serve are integral in our fight to end homelessness in Harford County. This month, we want to give some well-deserved love to a volunteer from our Aberdeen location, Maria Boller. 

Maria joined the HFH team earlier this year, eager for an opportunity to give back to her community as a recent retiree. Having worked in office administration for most of her adult life, Maria was interested in using her eye for organization to help us smooth our donation process. Now, she works every week to organize and inventory all the generous donations we receive from our community. Any In-kind donations that we are unable to utilize or store, Maria rehomes to other deserving local charities.  

In doing so, Maria has grown and strengthened our network in many ways that have greatly impacted our mission. Maria recalls a special moment while rehoming donations to the New Day Recovery and Wellness Center. She remembers being welcomed with open arms, offered help to unload her car, and profusely thanked her for the contribution. “Their heartfelt gratitude was moving.” 

When asked why our mission is important to her, Maria commented that those experiencing homelessness have traveled a “steep and rocky road” compared to others. She reminds that “we all deserve love and respect, no matter our circumstances.” 

To set up your own volunteer experience, reach out to Sue Lebuhn at slebuhn@harfordfamilyhouse.org to get started. 

Donohue-Hart-Thomson’s Commitment to Harford Family House 

Harford Family House provides crucial support to those experiencing homelessness in Harford County. However, without the generosity of our donors and sponsors, we could not reach our goals or support the individuals and families we serve. This is why annual sponsors like Donohue-Hart-Thomson Financial Group (DHTFG) are essential to our mission.

DHTFG President Mike Thomson discovered Harford Family House a few years ago after hearing the testimony of a former resident. Moved by our mission and his faith, Mike felt “compelled to do more.”

After inquiring about ways to get involved, DHTFG became an annual sponsor of Harford Family House, supporting our mission by providing the financial resources that help offer life-changing services to those in our programs. One aspect of our mission that resonated with Mike is that Harford Family House provides more than “just a handout”; we “provide the foundation for a better life” for the people we serve.

For DHTFG, supporting local nonprofits like Harford Family House is more than a business decision; it’s a mission-driven by faith. “Our faith calls us to give,” Mike explains. DHTFG, as a small business, also relies on a thriving local economy to remain successful, and they believe everyone deserves financial guidance delivered “in a manner that cares for, relates to, and gives hope to their future.”

Through their ongoing support of Harford Family House, Donohue-Hart-Thomson Financial Group demonstrates the power of corporate social responsibility and the impact that comes from uplifting those in need within the local community. To learn more about our annual sponsorship opportunities, please contact Heather Volk at hvolk@harfordfamilyhouse.org.

According to the most recent Point-In-Time Count, there are 220 people experiencing homelessness in Harford County on any given night. This often-overlooked population faces hardships that are rarely acknowledged, and their personal stories are seldom heard. 

Understanding the barriers of homelessness is essential, but it’s equally important to recognize that each individual’s journey through homelessness is shaped by unique challenges and experiences. Every person’s story helps provide critical context, painting a clearer picture as to what homelessness in Harford County truly looks like.  

Former resident Devonte, age 24, recounts his time spent living in a cold park for two weeks prior to coming to Harford Family House. He shares that he would “use the hand dryers in the library bathrooms for warmth” and “freshen up” in the sink. Devonte adds that this was his replacement for a shower, although he mentions he viewed it more as a “bird bath.” Devonte would sleep on a slide in the park every night until he found refuge from the elements at Harford Family House. 

For other residents we have served, physical violence was not uncommon when sleeping outside. A former HFH resident, age 68, was often beaten and robbed of his money at the train station he frequented for transportation. This caused paranoia to fester and become another barrier for him to overcome. One current HFH resident was brutally jumped and robbed while living in a local encampment just days prior to entering our emergency shelter. The injuries he suffered led to chronic health issues.  

Jenn Greenleaf, HFH Director of Homelessness Services, shares that being asked to relocate is also a common experience for those living outdoors. “We see it all the time.” People often seek safety in public spaces, but business owners, concerned about deterring customers, sometimes force them to move along, pushing them into more dangerous locations. 

For many unhoused individuals, basic privacy and dignity are luxuries they don’t get to enjoy. Some are forced to relieve themselves outside, stripping them of their humanity and dignity. 

Those who are employed must find a means to then look presentable for work the next day, often through use of public bathrooms and sanitary wipes. Lack of hygiene can affect their job standing. For others who are unemployed, job searches can be extremely difficult without resources to maintain proper hygiene or a permanent residence to list on the application.  

Experiencing homelessness comes with numerous challenges that often go unnoticed, such as sleep deprivation, struggles to afford public transportation, and limited access to the internet or online job applications. These invisible barriers make daily life even harder. At Harford Family House, we are dedicated to providing the life-changing support and resources needed to overcome these obstacles. Our neighbors deserve care and compassion, especially when they are facing their most difficult moments. 

Dear Friends and Supporters, 

November is Homelessness Awareness Month.  We are steadfast in making this the most impactful yet. As those experiencing homelessness prepare to brave the coldest months of the year, providing shelter and services to the unhoused is essential in offering refuge from the elements. It also means ensuring that individuals and families have access to long-term stability and hope for a brighter future. 

We have collaborated with our community partners to highlight our mission work for those experiencing homelessness. We are meeting with community leaders throughout the month and have kicked off multiple donation drives throughout Harford County this month. We are also sharing more success stories from our clients to help increase awareness of the issues facing the unhoused. 

Awareness is only the first step. Only through the collective efforts of our donors, volunteers, and advocates can we provide life-changing support to those experiencing homelessness.  From shelter and case management to essential resources, every effort counts toward transforming lives. 

As we dedicate November to raising awareness, we encourage you to join us in our mission. Whether by spreading the word, lending your time, or making a financial contribution, your involvement ensures that we can continue providing these critical services and help more families get back on their feet. Together, we can make a lasting impact. 

Sincerely,  

Robin Tomechko, CEO 

Frank Kellner, Board Chair 

Homelessness is more than just a lack of shelter; it is a complex, multi-faceted issue shaped by a variety of barriers that prevent individuals and families from achieving stability. Before our community can eradicate homelessness, we must first ask ourselves how we got here and what barriers we must overcome to achieve our goals. 

Beyond the common perceptions of barriers like substance abuse, and mental health issues, there are numerous, often overlooked factors that can lead to homelessness. Many families, especially those led by single parents, face the challenge of unaffordable daycare, which can prevent parents from securing stable employment. Physical disabilities or illnesses can create insurmountable medical debt, making it difficult to afford necessities. Mental health struggles, such as anxiety or PTSD, may hinder someone’s ability to secure or keep a job. Domestic violence can force victims to flee unsafe environments without a stable form of housing to go to.  

In addition, experiencing homelessness in Harford County brings along its own unique set of barriers that can be difficult to overcome. One prominent barrier for those we serve is the lack of affordable housing in the area. According to Zillow, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Aberdeen currently sits at an astounding $1,300 per month. Most landlords require a tenant’s income to be at least three times their rent, resulting in those earning below $46,800 a year being ineligible to rent an apartment in the area. These rates are unachievable for many experiencing homelessness. 

 All these factors come together, creating complex scenarios that trap individuals in a cycle of homelessness, far beyond the stereotypes many associate with being unhoused. Understanding these challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness in Harford County allows us to create effective action plans curated to their needs.  

At Harford Family House, we are committed to helping address homelessness at the various root causes. To achieve this, we have built strong relationships with over 50 community partners that support our mission and help us guide residents toward independent living. Our on-site programs cover areas such as financial counseling, legal guidance, physical and mental health services, and workforce development. By ensuring that we address the root causes of homelessness and provide lasting, transformative solutions, we are making crucial strides toward our mission of eradicating homelessness in our community. 

Remaining Constant During Times of Change

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Autumn is finally upon us! The leaves are starting to change, the air is crisp, and our porches will soon be filled with children in costumes. As the holiday season fast approaches, we must remind ourselves that those most affected by the change of seasons in our community are those experiencing homelessness.

As the temperatures drop, the hardships faced by those without stable housing increase. People who are chronically exposed to the elements are subject to much higher rates of weather-related illness and life-threatening challenges. Not only do these conditions have considerable physical effects, but mental health issues increase as the days shorten and the colder weather makes its impact.

Although the seasons are changing, one thing that will remain constant is our passion and dedication to our mission of eradicating homelessness in Harford County. At Harford Family House, we are committed to providing warmth, safety, and support for those in need. We ask that you choose to join us in making a powerful impact on the lives of those we serve.

Sincerely,

Robin Tomechko, CEO

Frank Kellner, Board Chair

Pat Wachter

Pat began volunteering at Harford Family House back in 2016 in our emergency shelter. She would make lunches for the residents to take for the day and help organize our food pantry. After COVID, Pat wanted to get more involved,  joining our team as a part-time staff member!

Pat worked diligently for two years supporting our Marketing and Communications Department. As a staff member, she offered her passion for detail and “heart for the homeless and working poor” to help spread the word about our mission. Pat worked as an integral team member until she retired in 2023.

“Make a difference somewhere, somehow.”

For most, this would be the end of their time at an organization, but not for Pat. Pat stepped back into her role as a dedicated volunteer without missing a beat. “I am thrilled to be back volunteering.” To this day, she offers her time weekly in many capacities to serve our residents.

Pat encourages everyone should “go out and serve!” She mentions “You will learn so much about yourself and change someone’s life in the process.” We are so grateful to Pat for her contributions and service work to Harford Family House.

Are you looking to volunteer? Reach out to Sue Lebuhn at slebuhn@harfordfamilyhouse.org to learn more!

Looking Beyond the Screen

In a society that promotes social media consumption targeting our youth, parents are looking for opportunities for children to unplug and make real-world connections. It has been reported that, on average, American children spend only 4-7 minutes a day outside compared to a jarring 7.5 hours’ worth of screen time per day (CDC). Parents looking to decrease their children’s screentime can seek out their local nonprofit.

At Harford Family House, we encourage children to get involved in their community from an early age. Community engagement offers children the opportunity to become unplugged for a few hours and reconnect with those in need. By fostering a sense of responsibility for their community’s welfare, children are motivated to put down their devices and participate in activities that foster an understanding of the world around them.

Volunteering also offers exposure to a host of activities like painting, basic facility maintenance, gardening, and asset organization. Beyond that, service work offers the chance to expand on personal development skills like problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and communication. For young people, learning these skills early not only enhances their social and emotional intelligence but also prepares them for future academic and professional success down the road.

At Harford Family House, we have seen firsthand the transformative impact of youth volunteerism. By encouraging our youth to take an active role in their community, we are helping them better understand the world around them.

To learn more about the available volunteer opportunities at Harford Family House, please contact Sue Lebuhn at slebuhn@harfordfamilyhouse.org or call 410-273-6700.

References:

CDC – Infographics – Screen time vs. lean time – NCCDPHP: Community health. (2018, December 12). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/physicalactivity/getmoving.htm

October marks the observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  There is a correlation between domestic violence and homelessness. Last year, on any given day, there were 555 domestic violence victims seeking refuge from homelessness in Maryland (NNDEV). These two crises are often tragically intertwined, as victims of abuse face overwhelming barriers when fleeing unsafe environments.

For domestic violence victims, lack of safe housing to flee to is the primary barrier that prevents them from escaping dangerous circumstances. The fear of homelessness forces individuals to remain trapped in abusive situations rather than risk the uncertainty and instability of being unhoused. That is why the shelter and support HFH offers to those experiencing homelessness is critical.

At Harford Family House, we see firsthand how domestic violence can drive victims into homelessness. The courageous individuals who flee often do so quickly with just the clothes on their backs, leaving behind jobs, belongings, and established support in a desperate attempt to survive. We strive to ensure that these survivors have a space where they can rebuild their lives, regain their independence, and heal from the trauma they have endured.

This is not an issue that we can solve alone. We work closely with SARC (Sexual Assault/ Spouse Abuse Resource Center) of Harford County to best support those individuals affected who seek refuge in our facilities. As a united community, we can work together to be a lifeline for victims of domestic violence who are seeking a fresh start.

References:

National Network to End Domestic Violence (2024). 18th Annual Domestic Violence Counts Report. Washington, DC. Retrieved from: NNEDV.org/DVCounts

Ann & Cecelia

As summer draws to a close, we want to shine some light on the dedicated volunteers who have made this summer so special for HFH youth residents. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, children experiencing homelessness have twice the rate of learning disabilities and three times the rate of emotional and behavioral problems of children who have homes. It is for this reason; we celebrate this dynamic duo of retired teachers who make a significant impact on the lives of the children enrolled in our programs.

Ann Blocher and Cecelia Tyszkiewicz have been supporting the children of Harford Family House in their academic journeys for several months in many capacities. Last summer, Ann attended the HFH Open House. Feeling moved by our mission; Ann soon pitched the idea to start a Homework Club for the kids. In conjunction with Cecelia, who felt inspired by the children experiencing homelessness she worked with during her time as a teacher, the Homework Club began.

Ann and Cecelia began meeting with a group of 8 kids every week, working on homework and establishing relationships that would help to encourage academic success. When the children finish their homework, they create fun crafts, learn to garden, or spend time playing games. Cecelia described that they try to “provide a warm, encouraging, welcoming space for the kids to work, create, and express themselves, while spending time with their peers.” During a time that can be scary and uncertain for children, Ann and Cecelia helped build a support system of adults who care about [the children], their families, and their future.

As the school year concluded, Ann and Cecelia decided they wanted to maintain the relationships they built with the kids and continue to endorse a sense of community among them. To do this, the duo took the kids on several summer outings including trips to the farm fair, library, movie theater, bowling, mini golf, and a girl’s day out to Amazing Glaze. Ann noticed during their bowling excursion that only one child had been bowling prior to their outing.

When asked about their biggest take aways from their time spent volunteering with the kids, Cecelia commented that “whatever small things we can do for others, should be done.” Ann also added that she finds it incredibly important that she “give up a few hours a week of her time to help others feel valued and cared for.”

Harford Family House is incredibly grateful to have this remarkable duo as part of our dedicated volunteer team. Their contributions to our young residents’ success are immeasurable and lifelong. Harford Family House would not be the same without their weekly visits.

References

Caring for the Health and Wellness of Children Experiencing Homelessness. (2024, June 3). Head Start | ECLKC. https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/homelessness-tip-sheet.pdf