On July 9, 2015 Tim Collins Account Manager for TEQ and Darrell Blocksom presented Debbie DeGraw, Vice President of Marketing and Development for Home of the Sparrow and Gene Salvadalena Executive Director for Home of the Sparrow a $5,000 check.

Home of the Sparrow’s mission is: To Provide Hope, Opportunity and Support that empowers women and children as they journey from homelessness to self-sufficiency.

Home of the Sparrow offers a Transitional Shelter, 19 Units of Affordable Housing, a Transitional Apartment Program, a Rapid Re-Housing Program, Counseling, case management, financial and parenting classes (and more), Outreach and Prevention Program, and Employment and Education Counseling.

Women who come to HOS are generally single, pregnant, and accompanied by their children. Approximately 70 percent have domestic violence in their history. Other reasons for homelessness include unforseen housing or financial crisis, a death in the family, or a medical emergency. The weak economy and rising cost of living over the past few years contribute to unstable housing situations.

Approximately 85 percent of individuals exiting HOS shelter services move into permanent housing. The number of individuals served grows each year in keeping with increased needs. In 2013, HOS served 123 women and children; in 2014, that number was 224; in 2015, HOS expects to serve 500 individuals by June 30, 2015; in 2016, HOS expects to serve approximately 800 persons.

Pictured left to right: Darrell Blocksom TEQ, Debbie DeGraw VP Home of the Sparrow, Tim Collins TEQ, Gene Salvadalena, Executive Director Home of the Sparrow.