Fundraiser for Homeward Bound a Success, But More Help Is Needed

Homeward Bound, the local ‘homeless shelter’ held a fundraiser Sunday night.  Those in attendance learned a great deal about the magnitude of services Homeward Bound provides, and had the opportunity to listen to some great music! Needless to say, it is not just a homeless shelter.

Their main goal is to help people transition from the streets to a stable home and work environment.  Homeward Bound offers two years of case management as well as getting families and veterans off the streets permanently.

The event took place at the American Lutheran Church in Grand Junction and featured classical guitarist Javier de los Santos as well as the Evergreen String Quartet.  For nearly three hours the guests were delightfully entertained with music from Italy. South America, Mexico and Spain.

Homeward Bound, based at 2853 North Avenue, is the only shelter on the Western Slope and has helped more than 1,340 people in 2015; including 182 children and 67 families; many of whom are victims of domestic violence.  Shelter is just one of many services Homeward Bound provides.  They served more than 112,822 hot meals over the course of the year and 4,860 bag lunches for those who worked.  Providing as many comforts as possible, the service also offers showers, rest, a safe environment, caring and access to computers.

Additionally, Homeward Bound co-operates the Phoenix Project which helps veterans get and remain sober.  The Phoenix Project provides a safe place to live, helps the veterans find employment and provides two years of case management.

Because they have been working at capacity for more than three years, Homeward Bound is building the Pathways Village near 29 Road and Orchard Avenue.  This larger location will be for women and families, offering 40 supported apartments and on-site services with Hilltop Community Resources.

So how can you help them with this very important mission?  Volunteers are always needed to assist with their daily operations; monetary donations can be made at their website.  Don’t forget to like the Homeward Bound Facebook page to help spread the word about the fantastic work they do for our community!  In addition to time and money, toilet paper, paper towels meat, coffee, canned fruits and vegetables, and basic spices are also some of the things Homeward Bound needs to operate; much like the items we need to run our homes.

Homeward Bound is much more than just a ‘homeless shelter,’ and the best way to help this phenomenal organization is with continued community support; fundraisers and supply drives are ideal!  If your church or civic organization is looking to help a worthy cause, keep Homeward Bound in mind!