Our Doors Remain Open!
October 2020
By observing CDC guidelines and through the commitment of a dedicated staff, the our shelter has been able to stay open through the pandemic. We are grateful to be able to continue serving the healing process of our families.
During COVID-19 we have:
- Responded to an increase of domestic violence calls: Lake County’s DV hotline has seen an increase in calls – from 14 to 100 calls per week. HOP has helped connect survivors with available resources and referrals and made follow-up calls to ensure these families have received the help they needed.
- Dedicated time to education and outreach: About 150 families in our greater HOP community have been called weekly and listened to in order to assess their needs. Many had been affected by COVID-19 directly and/or indirectly by losing their jobs or diminishing their working hours. This has had a tremendous impact on housing stability.
- Helped secure rental assistance: For families who have difficulty meeting the cost of their housing due to COVID-19, we have helped find financial resources that provide some relief.
- Implemented a tutoring program: Virtual learning has been a major challenge for mothers and children in our community. A partnership with with Loyola Academy High School has established a tutoring program via Zoom to support children in their educational studies. In addition, Loyola Academy students are providing ESL classes to our moms!
- Continued Wellness programs: Self-empowering and calming yoga classes continue weekly thanks to the support of volunteers providing remote services. We have created beautiful new artwork signifying the journey of healing and hope.
- Continued with Counseling and Healing: We continue to provide emotional support and guidance to our moms and their children to address added stressors due to COVID-19 impact.
