J ANU AR Y 2 0 1 4
OCTOBER 2013
Family matters New year, new beginnings We hope that everyone had an enjoyable holiday season and that 2014 is off to a fresh and healthy start! As we begin this new year we are excited about the possibilities of new beginnings. The beginning of a new year is much like a fresh snow and everything is covered under a blanket of white. What kind of tracks will you make this year? For us, heading into our 35th year of operation, is all about growth. When we began caring for the 14 mentally ill women at a room above the Ugly Pub back in 1979 it was a completely volunteer-led effort.
Although much has changed in the days since the Ugly Pub, one thing still rings true—we remain committed to our initial calling, to find and care for the abandoned poor and to be family with those who have none. Our goal this year is to continue to strengthen our capabilities to assure that Bethesda Project will always exist as a caring family for Philadelphia’s homeless. Join us. Donate, volunteer or fundraise. Learn how to get involved at http://bethesdaproject.org/get-involved.
Fast forward 35 years and we now care for more than 2,500 homeless and formerly homeless men and women each year at 14 sites in and around Center City. Our facilities offer a continuum of care ranging from lowdemand drop-in centers, shelters and safe havens to permanent supportive residences and semi-independent, low-income housing. We care for the homeless regardless of race, creed or any other designation. The only creed that we require of our staff is that of compassion.
In memoriam
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to longtime Bethesda Project resident Frances (Frannie) B. who passed away in December. Frannie lived at Bethesda Spruce Street residence for 19 years and was loved by all. The Spruce Street community will be holding a memorial service for Frannie later this month. She will be missed dearly.