As we step into May, we are reminded of the beauty of renewal and growth. With spring in full bloom, this is a time of fresh starts and brighter days—a sentiment that perfectly reflects the mission of Harford Family House.

Every day, we witness families who are courageously embracing new beginnings. Our team works tirelessly to provide the support, resources, and safe housing they need to rebuild their lives and secure lasting stability. This month, we continue to focus on our mission, providing hope and a helping hand to those who need it most.

May is also a time for community, and we are grateful for the unwavering support we receive from our dedicated partners, volunteers, and donors. Your generosity allows families in our community to find not just shelter but a pathway to a brighter future. Thank you for standing with us.

We invite you to stay connected with us in the coming weeks as we share inspiring stories of resilience and provide opportunities to make a lasting impact. Whether you choose to volunteer, attend one of our events, or share our mission with others, you are a vital part of our family.

Thank you for your continued support.

With gratitude,

Robin Tomechko, CEO

Frank Kellner, Board Chair

Mental Health Awareness Month: How Stable Housing Supports Mental Wellbeing

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of mental well-being and have open, honest conversations about mental health. At Harford Family House, we see firsthand how the lack of stable housing can affect mental health and how providing a safe, supportive environment can be life-changing.

The connection between housing and mental health is clear. Families and individuals experiencing homelessness often face overwhelming stress, anxiety, and depression. The uncertainty of not knowing where they will sleep, how they will provide for their children, or how they will rebuild their lives takes a heavy toll. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

When individuals have access to stable housing, their mental health can improve dramatically. At Harford Family House, we provide more than just a roof over people’s heads. Our comprehensive support services offer emotional counseling, financial education, and access to essential resources, empowering families to heal, rebuild, and thrive.

Stable housing creates a foundation for better mental health in several ways:

1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Knowing you have a safe place to call home brings peace of mind and a sense of security.
2. Improved Family Relationships: Families no longer focused on survival can strengthen their bonds and support one another.
3. Access to Mental Health Services: Through our partnerships with local organizations, residents can access counseling and support when needed.
4. Opportunity for Growth: With basic needs met, individuals can focus on education, job readiness, and long-term goals.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, we invite you to support our mission. By supporting Harford Family House, you are not just providing housing—you are creating a foundation for mental and emotional healing.

Join us in raising awareness and making a difference. Let’s build a community where everyone can achieve stability, hope, and well-being. Warm regards, Harford Family House

The Hidden Toll: How Homelessness Affects Children

When we think about homelessness, our minds often go to adults — individuals we see on the streets or hear about in the news. But what’s less visible, and frequently far more heartbreaking, is the impact homelessness has on children.

At Harford Family House, we see firsthand how unstable housing affects young lives. The truth is that no child should grow up without a place to call home.

A Crisis in the Shadows

Children are one of the fastest-growing segments of the homeless population in the United States. They’re often hidden — living in cars, couch-surfing with family members, or bouncing between temporary shelters. Their reality is marked by uncertainty, fear, and loss of routine — all critical elements for healthy development.

Interrupted Education

One of the first and most devastating consequences of homelessness for children is the disruption of education. Frequent moves can mean switching schools multiple times a year, making it hard to keep up with lessons or form meaningful relationships with teachers and peers. Without access to proper school supplies, transportation, or even clean clothes, many homeless children struggle silently in the classroom.

Emotional and Mental Strain

The emotional toll is equally alarming. Children without stable housing often experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and trauma. The lack of a safe, predictable environment can lead to behavioral issues, trouble sleeping, and difficulties in social settings. Without the proper support, these struggles can follow them into adulthood.

Health Risks

Living without a stable home increases a child’s exposure to illness, poor nutrition, and lack of sleep — all of which contribute to long-term health problems. They may miss regular doctor’s visits, vaccinations, and mental health support. The basics that many families take for granted become luxuries out of reach.

The Ripple Effect

Homelessness in childhood can have lifelong effects. Studies show that children who experience homelessness are more likely to face poverty, struggle in school, and encounter mental health issues well into their adult years. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

A Path Forward

The good news is that intervention works. Children can thrive again with stable housing, access to education and mental health support, and a caring community around them. At Harford Family House, we provide not just shelter, but stability. We create an environment where kids can go to school without worrying about where they’ll sleep that night, where families can begin to heal together, and where hope is more than just a word — it’s a future.

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How You Can Help

Your support makes this possible. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, you have the power to change a child’s life. Let’s work together to ensure every child has the safe, stable home they deserve.

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No child chooses homelessness. But we can choose to help. And in doing so, we give them the foundation they need to grow, to dream, and to shine.

Springtime Reflections on Homelessness and Hope

Dear Friends,

As the days grow longer and the first signs of spring blossom all around us, we are reminded of the season’s promise—renewal, growth, and fresh starts. Nature awakens with color and warmth, and we often find ourselves inspired to start anew.

Yet, for many in our community, spring brings more than sunshine. For individuals and families experiencing homelessness, this season can highlight the contrast between hope and hardship. The struggle to find stable shelter, a warm meal, or a safe place for children to sleep doesn’t go away with the winter chill. In fact, the transition between seasons can create new challenges, from health concerns to the continued stress of uncertainty.

Homelessness is not just about a lack of housing. It’s about the loss of security, stability, and dignity. Many of the individuals we serve are facing unimaginable difficulties — job loss, mental health struggles, domestic violence, or rising costs that have left them without a safety net. Our mission at Harford Family House is to help rebuild that net — to offer not just housing, but healing, hope, and a path forward.

Spring reminds us that change is possible. With your support, we are planting the seeds of transformation — every safe night’s sleep, every job training session, and every child who can attend school with a full belly and a hopeful heart. These are the beginnings of a brighter future.

As we move through this season of renewal, I invite you to reflect on the power of community. Together, we can ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the chance to bloom.

Sincerely,

Breaking Barriers: The Challenges Homeless Individuals Face in Employment

Finding and maintaining stable employment is a key step toward overcoming homelessness, yet it is far from easy. While many assume that homelessness results from unemployment, the reality is more complex. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, approximately 25-40% of the homeless population is employed at any given time. However, significant barriers make it difficult for these individuals to achieve financial stability and long-term housing security.

The Struggle of Low Wages and High Housing Costs

One of the most significant barriers to employment for homeless individuals is the economic reality of low wages and high housing costs. A 2021 study by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) found that a minimum wage worker would need to work approximately 96 hours per week—the equivalent of 2.4 full-time jobs—to afford a two-bedroom rental home at the national average fair market rent. This stark reality makes it nearly impossible for those earning low wages to secure and maintain stable housing, even if they are working full-time.

The Lack of a Permanent Address

A permanent address is a basic necessity for securing employment, yet it is something many homeless individuals do not have. Many job applications require a home address, and without one, applicants may be automatically disqualified. Additionally, employers and government agencies often require a mailing address for paychecks, tax forms, and other essential documents. Without stable housing, simple logistics like receiving mail or listing an address on a resume become major obstacles in the job search process.

Education and Skill Barriers

Many homeless individuals face challenges related to education and job skills, which can limit their employment opportunities. A lack of formal education, incomplete high school diplomas, or outdated job skills make it difficult to compete in today’s job market. Many jobs require technical knowledge, certifications, or specialized training—barriers that can be insurmountable without access to affordable education and job training programs. Additionally, gaps in employment history due to homelessness can make it harder to secure interviews and gain employer trust.

Health and Well-Being Challenges

Homelessness takes a severe toll on both physical and mental health, further complicating employment prospects. Lack of proper nutrition, sleep deprivation, chronic illnesses, and exposure to extreme weather conditions all impact a person’s ability to perform job duties. Additionally, many homeless individuals struggle with untreated mental health conditions or substance use disorders, which can make finding and keeping a job even more challenging. Without access to healthcare and support services, these issues often go unaddressed, making employment stability nearly impossible.

Discrimination and Social Barriers

Beyond economic and logistical challenges, homeless individuals often face discrimination and social stigma when seeking employment. Many employers hold negative stereotypes about homelessness, assuming that individuals without stable housing are unreliable or untrustworthy. This bias can lead to fewer job opportunities and lower wages, even for those who are qualified and eager to work. Additionally, background checks and credit history screenings can disproportionately disadvantage those who have experienced financial hardship, further limiting their access to stable employment. Without supportive hiring practices, these social barriers can make it even harder for homeless individuals to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness.

Breaking the Cycle

At Harford Family House, we recognize these challenges and work to provide the resources necessary to help individuals and families overcome them. Through housing stability programs, job training, and connections to healthcare services, we aim to break the cycle of homelessness and create pathways to independence. However, systemic changes—such as increased affordable housing options, higher wages, and expanded support services—are essential to ensuring that employment truly leads to long-term stability for those experiencing homelessness.

How You Can Help

Addressing employment barriers for the homeless requires a community-wide effort. Employers can play a role by offering fair wages and flexible hiring practices. Policymakers can advocate for affordable housing solutions and increased access to mental health care. Individuals can support organizations like Harford Family House through donations, volunteering, and advocacy efforts.

By working together, we can help break down these barriers and create opportunities for all individuals to achieve financial stability and permanent housing. No one should have to work multiple jobs just to afford a place to sleep at night. Let’s be part of the solution.

CEO/Board Letter Spring Forward: A Season of Renewal and Hope

As March arrives, we begin to see the world waking up from its winter slumber. The days grow longer, flowers push through the soil, and a renewed sense of hope fills the air. Spring is a season of transformation—of shedding the old and embracing the new. At Harford Family House, we see this time of year as a powerful reminder of the resilience and rebirth that is possible for families and individuals overcoming homelessness.

A Time for Renewal

For those experiencing homelessness, winter can be especially harsh, both physically and emotionally. The cold months bring additional challenges—seeking shelter, warmth, and security becomes even more difficult. But with the arrival of spring, there is an opportunity for renewal. Just as nature begins to bloom, so too do the possibilities for new beginnings.

At Harford Family House, we witness stories of transformation every day. Families who once faced uncertainty and hardship find stability, resources, and hope through our programs and services. Spring symbolizes this journey—moving from struggle to stability, from despair to optimism.

Healing and Growth

Spring is also a time for healing. It reminds us that no matter how harsh the winter has been, growth is always possible. The individuals and families we serve are not defined by their past struggles but by their strength, perseverance, and the support they receive to build a brighter future.

With access to safe housing, financial education, career guidance, and mental health support, those in our programs find the tools they need to move forward. Just like the trees sprouting fresh leaves, our families take steps toward independence, one day at a time.

Hope Springs Eternal

Hope is at the heart of everything we do. Every person who walks through our doors is met with compassion and the belief that a better future is within reach. As we embrace the warmth of spring, we also embrace the idea that change is possible.

You can be a part of this season of hope. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, your support helps families find the fresh start they deserve. Just as the earth awakens in March, so too can we help awaken hope in the hearts of those we serve.

This spring, let’s work together to ensure that every family has the opportunity for renewal, healing, and a brighter tomorrow.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Harford Family House continues to be a beacon of hope for those in need. Your generosity and compassion allow us to provide vital resources to families facing homelessness. As the season of renewal unfolds, we invite you to be a part of the change.

Together, we can turn the promise of spring into a lasting impact for the individuals and families we support.

Happy Spring from all of us at Harford Family House!

Sincerely,

Robin Tomechko, CEO

Frank Kellner, Board Chair

Sharon Smith from Bulle Rock Community 

At Harford Family House, we are incredibly fortunate to have dedicated volunteers who go above and beyond to serve our residents. One of those remarkable individuals is Sharon Smith, a leader from the Bulle Rock Community who has spearheaded a committed group of volunteers dedicated to supporting our mission. Through meal preparation, donation drives, and heartfelt engagement, Sharon and her team have made a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. 

While providing meals is a huge part of their service, Sharon emphasizes that their impact extends beyond the food. “I hope that the residents feel we are there as neighbors helping neighbors, bringing more than just a meal, but some conversation and lots of smiles.” This sense of connection and community helps our residents feel seen and supported during their darkest times. 

For Sharon, one of the most rewarding moments is when residents express their gratitude after a meal. Hearing firsthand how much they enjoyed dinner reiterates the importance of their work. Another moving experience for her is witnessing the heartfelt prayers offered by residents before meals. “It’s heartwarming when a resident leads the prayer, and I hear some of the most beautiful, grateful, and sincere messages,” she shares. 

Sharon and the Bulle Rock Community are not only continuing their efforts but also working to expand their partnership with Harford Family House. Their long-standing dedication is a shining example of how a committed group of individuals can create meaningful change. We look forward to continue working with them to make a lasting impact on those struggling in our community. 

Love in Action: Spreading Warmth and Hope This February

February is often known as the month of love, when hearts and flowers fill store shelves, and people celebrate the joy of connection. But for those experiencing homelessness, love isn’t found in a box of chocolates or a bouquet of roses—it’s found in the warmth of a helping hand, the kindness of a stranger, and the support of a caring community.

At Harford Family House, we believe love isn’t just a word, it’s an action. This Valentine’s season, we invite you to join us in spreading love where it’s needed most: to families and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Love Beyond Words: How You Can Make a Difference

Love is powerful when it is shared, and there are so many ways you can help provide comfort and support to those facing housing insecurity:

Give the Gift of Shelter – A warm, safe place to sleep is one of the most meaningful gifts you can offer. Your donations help provide housing, utilities, and essential services to families and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Share a Meal, Share Love – Consider organizing a food drive, donating to our food pantry, or volunteering at our Emergency Shelter meal program. Nothing says “you matter” like a warm, nourishing meal.

Spread Love with Essential Supplies – Collect hygiene products, and household essentials to help those transitioning from homelessness to stability. Small comforts can make a big difference.

Be an Advocate for Change – Educate yourself and others about the root causes of homelessness. Use your voice to support policies and initiatives that provide long-term solutions.

Love That Lasts All Year

Valentine’s Day may come and go, but love should never have an expiration date. By showing compassion and taking action, we can create a community where no one has to face homelessness alone.

This February, let’s redefine love—not just as a feeling, but as a force for good. Join us in making a lasting impact, because everyone deserves to feel loved, seen, and supported.

 Will you be a part of the love movement? Donate, volunteer, or spread awareness today.

Together, we can build a future where love lifts people out of hopelessness and into wholeness.

Sincerely,

Robin Tomechko, CEO

Frank Kellner, Board Chair

January Volunteer Spotlight: Melinda Grace

Meet Melinda Grace, a faithful Harford Family House (HFH) volunteer who has dedicated two years of service to supporting those experiencing homelessness. Melinda joined our team in February 2023, seeking out opportunities for her teenager to become involved in the community. During this encounter, she noticed something remarkable about volunteering at HFH specifically. “The staff members’ commitment to HFH caught my eye.”  

From this moment on, Melinda has become one of our regular volunteers, whom we have come to rely on frequently to help with a variety of tasks. “Each visit I offer to do whatever needs to be done. Her contributions have included cleaning apartments, assisting at our events, painting, sorting donations, and more. “I’m not choosy” she comments. 

In the two short years Melinda has been dedicating her time to HFH, she has contributed 156 hours of service to our mission. She consistently carves out time to give back despite her own incredibly busy schedule. “There is not a positive adjective that does not describe her” staff member, Kailey Jourdan, adds. “She is truly one-of-a-kind.”  

Going beyond her service to HFH, her dedication to being part of change in her community is inspiring. “She embodies the true volunteer spirit” mentions Sue Lebuhn, HFH Assistant Director of Development. Sue explains that Melinda’s “heart is genuinely engaged with our mission and the population we serve.” 

HFH is so grateful to have Melinda’s kind heart and dedicated spirit as part of our team. Her contributions have known no bounds and have been insurmountable in the lives of those we serve.  

If you are looking to make a difference in our community, reach out to info@harfordfamilyhouse.org for more information. 

New Beginnings for 2025

A new year is upon us! 2024 offered Harford Family House so many milestones to rejoice and celebrate. With the help of our community, we were able to get families off the streets, help find permanent housing solutions for those in our care and connect with our community resources. By working hand in hand with local organizations, we provide comprehensive care for our residents, addressing not just immediate shelter needs but also the barriers that contribute to homelessness. 

Another milestone of 2024 was the hosting of our inaugural, informative forum, “Community in Conversation: The State of Homelessness in Harford County.” This event was an opportunity to bring together advocates, experts, and community members to shine a light on the realities of homelessness and discuss how everyone can contribute to change. 

As we fondly reflect back on successes from 2024, we eagerly turn our attention to 2025 with anticipation for another year of blessings and moments to rejoice. Harford Family House is dedicated to finding the start-to-finish solution to homelessness in Harford County and remains focused on closing that gap. While we take pride in the lives we’ve helped transform, we are driven to continue providing support to those still facing housing insecurity. 

Looking ahead, we are excited to share a monumental milestone on the horizon: the expansion of our Emergency Shelter in 2026! This project made possible through partnerships with federal, state, and local officials, as well as the generosity of our supporters, will create additional space to serve more women and, for the first time, families. This expansion is more than just added capacity—it is a commitment to provide families in crisis with the dignity and care they deserve, including safe, private, non-congregate living arrangements. As we prepare to turn our visions into impactful action, we recognize that our work would not be possible without our donors, volunteers, and advocates. Your contributions fuel our mission, and your belief in our vision inspires us to keep striving for a brighter future for all. 

This year, we invite you to take an even greater role in the fight to end homelessness in Harford County. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering your time, or spreading awareness about our mission, you can help us create lasting change. Together, we can transform lives, strengthen families, and build a community where no one is left without a place to call home. 

Sincerely,

Robin Tomechko, CEO

Frank Kellner, Board Chair

Homelessness is a reality that many choose to ignore, but it exists here in Harford County. Behind the statistics are individuals, each with their own stories, struggles, and dreams. Advocacy is essential in amplifying their voices and working toward a future where everyone has a safe place to call home. 

Being an advocate doesn’t always mean grand gestures. It can also mean small, intentional acts that raise awareness and create change. Here are some practical ways you can become an advocate for the voiceless: 

1. Educate Yourself and Others 

Learn more about the issues directly impacting those experiencing homelessness in our community and share your newfound knowledge with others. By understanding the barriers they are facing and what their day-to-day is like as someone in need in Harford County, you can offer a relevant perspective to those in your own networks. 

2. Support Your Local Non-Profits 

Your financial contributions offer life-changing support to our neighbors experiencing homelessness. Whether it’s $5 or $500, every bit helps us to make impactful changes in the lives of those we serve.  

3. Speak to Our Local Officials 

Change starts at the smallest levels! Reach out to your local officials and share your opinions on supporting those in need. Everyone’s voice matters in creating change. 

4. Get Involved in the Solution 

Harford Family House offers many ways to get involved including an array of volunteer opportunities, fundraising events, the opportunity to host a donation drive, and even the chance to donate right from your phone using our Amazon Wish List. There truly is something for everyone! 

5. Spread the Word 

Whether it’s telling a friend or sharing our posts on social media, getting the word out about those in need is critical. People cannot help solve an issue they don’t even know exists.  

Through advocacy and comradery, we can offer a hand up to those facing adversity. To start your advocacy journey, reach out to info@harfordfamilyhouse.org for more information about how you can get involved in our fight to end homelessness in Harford County.  

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