crisis
On the afternoon of November 5th, we learned that
for the first time in over 30 years of operation a
bedbug infestation was forcing Vera House to
evacuate our main shelter. Eleven women and twelve
children had to leave the comfort and support of
our shelter and find alternate housing in the
community.
blessings
As we worked our way through a difficult
transition, we were overwhelmed by how the
community opened its heart to us. “Thank you”
seems so inadequate to express the depth of our
gratitude for the outpouring of support we
received. We had more phone calls, letters and in
person offers of assistance than I could ever
recount here, but I do want to express special
appreciation to a few people . . . .
◊
First of all, Department of Social Services
Commissioner David Sutkowy spent many hours of
his own time contacting agencies to see if there
might be temporary shelter space available for our
residents.
◊
One of Commissioner Sutkowy’s calls was to
Linda Lopez at The Salvation Army. Linda
generously offered the use of an empty Salvation
Army space that allowed us to accommodate 14 women
and children during the time we were displaced.
◊
Cindy Davis from the NYS Office of Children and
Family Services rushed through the necessary
paperwork to enable us to quickly move people into
the temporary shelter.
◊
David Shiroff of Metro Mattress generously
donated all new box springs and mattresses for our
return to the main shelter.
◊
An anonymous donor donated cash to cover
all the expenses of replacing bedding, curtains
and other key items.
◊
The truly dedicated and caring staff and
volunteers of Vera House, despite incredibly
challenging circumstances, ensured that those who
needed our help continued to receive the level of
caring and compassionate service that they so
richly deserve.
Commissioner Sutkowy, Linda, Cindy, David, Vera
House staff & volunteers and all of the community
members who offered your support - thank you on
behalf of everyone we serve.
