The Irony of Celebrating One Year in Our New Home
As we celebrate the first anniversary in our new building, we are reminded of the profound irony that underlies our joy. While we are so thankful to have this space and appreciate the many years it took to become a reality, our daily mission at PorchLight is to extend that very sense of security and belonging to our unhoused neighbors. These two realities serve as both a humbling reminder and a powerful motivator, inspiring us to continue our efforts with relentless drive and unshakable commitment.
A Home of Our Own
Each day, our work revolves around those who lack the very thing we now celebrate: a home. A year ago, we opened the doors to our new building—a space designed to reflect our values and support our mission. This state-of-the-art facility has provided us with the resources and environment necessary to expand our programs, enhance our services, and foster a vibrant community. It symbolizes a significant milestone in our journey, a testament to years of dedication, hard work, and unwavering support.
The Daily Reality
As we enjoy the stability of our new home, we are acutely aware that many of our guests at PorchLight face a starkly different reality. Each day, we welcome men who are struggling with homelessness, seeking shelter, stability, and a fresh start. For them, the idea of a permanent, safe, and comfortable home is often a distant dream, overshadowed by the immediate challenges of the complexities of their circumstances.
This irony is not lost on us. In fact, it is a constant reminder of why PorchLight exists and fuels our determination to make a difference. It also reminds us to fully embrace the joy that our shelter guests experience when they finally land in their own place to call home.
A Place to Call Home
If you have been to PorchLight, you may have had the opportunity to meet Vince. A few years ago when we met Vince, he was living on the streets in Seattle. With the help of one of our Case Managers, Vince was able to spend time in our Rotating Shelter before we helped him get into a studio apartment. A few months agon, Vince joined our staff. Since then, he has worked on building is own security knowing we were walking along side him every step of the way. And, just a few short weeks ago, one of our Housing Navigators assisted Vince in securing a one-bedroom apartment – walking distance to his job at PorchLight!
Reflecting on Our Journey
As we reflect on our first year in our new home, we do so with humility and a deep sense of responsibility. Our new building is a symbol of what we can achieve together, but it also serves as a constant reminder of the work that remains. The comfort and stability we experience here is what we strive to provide for every person who walks through our doors seeking help.
This anniversary is a celebration of progress and a call to action. It reminds us that while we have come a long way, yet our mission is far from complete. The irony of our celebration only deepens our resolve to ensure that everyone has a place to call home.
Looking Forward
As we move forward, our commitment remains steadfast. We will continue to innovate, expand, and advocate until every individual who walks through our doors can experience the stability and security of a place they can truly call home. We celebrate our new home not as an endpoint but as a stepping stone toward greater impact and deeper compassion.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey. Together, we will continue to work towards a future where the irony of our celebration transforms into stories of success, stability, and new beginnings for all our guests.
