As a new year begins, I always reflect on the past and refocus on priorities. Looking back at 2017, I am particularly pleased that, with your support, Community of Hope helped to end or prevent homelessness for about 1,054 families. We also helped improve health for about 10,820 patients in over 58,000medical, dental, behavioral health and supportive service visits – a 11% increase from 2016. While our work is about more than numbers, my heart is full with the stories from the almost 13,000 people that your generosity has supported.
In 2018, I am renewed in our mission of creating opportunities for low-income families in Washington, DC to have good health, a stable home, family sustaining income, and hope. Despite uncertainty at the national level around policies and funding that Community of Hope relies upon, I remain committed to holding steady in all that we do. I am particularly excited about our return to the Marie Reed Health Center, which has been under renovation since June 2016. The new space, which is larger and brighter, expands the number of patients seen over time at that location. I know our patients and staff – who have been faithfully commuting to our other two locations – are looking forward to returning home.
I am also looking forward to this summer’s opening of The Commons at Stanton Square, a unique collaboration we have with Horning Family Fund, Horning Brothers, and Martha’s Table. This site allows us to extend many impactful services, especially behavioral health for the whole family. We will share a beautiful new facility in Ward 8 with Martha’s Table’s early childhood education and food and nutrition programs.
These opportunities have both been in the works for over five years. They mean we get to care for families, improve lives, and lead change throughout the city.
2018 is going to be an exciting year. Stay tuned to our news and updates in the months ahead.
