On a chilly December afternoon, participants and staff members in Simpson’s Women’s Housing Partnership program enjoyed a festive and heartwarming holiday gathering.
Expressing their creative flair, the group crafted handmade cards with ribbon, stickers, glitter glue, and personalized messages for family and friends. With kindness and humor, the group encouraged one another in their artistic creations.
Holiday cookies baked in the oven, and once cooled, the group decorated cut-out sugar cookies with colorful icing and sprinkles. The bakers prepared plates of cookies and enjoyed delicious samples!
Laura, one of the participants, looked forward to bringing a decorated plate of cookies home to her family along with additional cookie dough that she and her family would bake at home: “My kids are going to love these cookies. My daughter loves to bake. She’ll like making cookies at home.”
Sharing stories, reminiscing about childhood movie favorites, and talking about friends and family added to the fun of the holiday event and created connections within the group. “Many of the participants know each other and gathering to socialize is helpful — more so for people who are newly in their housing. Many enjoy the camaraderie and chance to get out for some fun,” says Single Adult Housing Program Manager Mary Gallini.
The Women‘s Housing Partnership is a supportive housing program for women who face long-term homelessness. Staff work intensively with program participants to forge ongoing relationships that foster individual strength, housing stability, and progress toward personal goals. We are grateful for our partnership with Avivo as we work together to serve participants.