Recent statistics show that there are approximately 1100 homeless children under 18 who receive services related to homelessness in Washtenaw County. Some of those homeless children and their families are current residents at Alpha House. As part of the First Pres local mission, we provide meals, childcare, companionship, and help with homework at Alpha House. For students and their families who feel dislocated and anxious, sitting together to share a meal can bring a touch of serenity; an hour of childcare can give stressed parents a chance to regroup; an arts and crafts project can give little ones moments of real pleasure; and help with a math problem or an essay can help a youngster be more successful in school the next day. The shelter is located on Jackson Road between Zeeb and Wagner. For more information on Alpha House, visit http://www.alphahouse-ihn.org.
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering at Alpha House can be a rewarding family activity. It offers an alternative to usual mealtime routines, it helps teens develop compassion, and it provides inspiration. The children and youth at Alpha House are resilient, and many have gone on to achieve a great deal. Testimonials from former Alpha House residents make it clear that ministries like ours have made big differences in their lives.
If you can’t help out at mealtime or in the evening, you could contribute to supplies for the pantry, or be a child care provider from 6:45 to 8 p.m. We can’t help all 1100 homeless students in Washtenaw County, but we can minister to those at Alpha House.
For more information, contact Diane Knibbs at dbreckle@umich.edu, Gail Einhaus at gail.enihaus@gmail.com, or Anne Gere at argere@umich.edu
As always, thank you for your support of our local mission at Alpha House and for your love and care for the homeless families in our community. Please contact Diane Knibbs at (734) 645-0912 with any questions or concerns, or if you would like to be added to the email list.