On December 21, we gathered alongside our staff, volunteers, guests, and partners to remember neighbors who died while experiencing homelessness last year. Our Outreach Team worked with 7 individuals who lost their lives in 2023. Together, outside in the dark and the cold, we paused to reflect on their names and their stories - and to sit in reality that our community is not yet a place where every neighbor has the opportunity to thrive.

As we move forward and shift into action, we will continue to say their names. We'll remember their stories, and reflect on the unique value that all people bring to our community.

As the weather grows colder, our team continues to work with guests to meet critical needs, while building towards long term stability. You can directly support our unhoused neighbors by hosting a drive, or purchasing items from our amazon wishlist today.

Read more about the event and Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day from our friends at the Holland Sentinel, The Lakeshore, and on WHTC’s Talk of the Town.