Churches and Synagogues Work Together for Homeless

The Interfaith Hospitality Network kicked off the season of giving with "Picture the Family," a fund-raising event that drew on every corner of the community to raise money for Essex County's homeless.

 "It doesn't matter what background you come from," said Stephanie, a benefactor of the churches and synagogues that provide shelter and funding for permanent housing and education. "Situations do happen that can set you back in life."

More than 400 people attended the fundraising breakfast at Mayfair Farms. It raised thousands of dollars for the Interfaith Hospitality Network's (IHN) ongoing services for the homeless, including "Home for Good," a new program that will provide permanent homes to families after they leave the shelter program, said Merle Benny, president of the IHN board of trustees.

In Essex County, there are more than 1,200 volunteers from 64 participating congregations – including Saint Philomena's Church in Livingston – who provide emergency shelter, beds, friendship and meals. The families also receive financial and emotional support, and child-care assistance. Keeping the families together is at the heart of its mission and provided a fitting theme for the Nov. 11 fundraiser, said Tia Aery, IHN's executive director.

 "In a world increasingly polarized by politics, religion, social status and income level, it is important to foster and uphold the cherished hopes that unite us: every family needs a place to call home; a home where we can share and laugh and make memories; a home where we can raise our children and nurture our loved ones in peace and safety," Aery said.

The need has never been greater. Recent data from the 2010 Point in Time Count of the Homeless reveal Essex County to have the highest rate of homelessness out of all 21 counties in New Jersey.

The event featured artwork created by dozens of children from Geralyn's Art Studio and schools and an essay contest sponsored by Words, Maplewood's bookstore. My family was introduced to the work of IHN when our daughter Holly was awarded first prize for her essay, "A Picture of My Family in Words."

"This thoughtful essay showed joy, appreciation and acceptance of her family's unique challenges," said Judith Lindbergh, a noted West Orange author who judged the contest.

The second place winner was Lucy West from Maplewood. Her essay spoke of their dining room table, and how it could tell their family memories by repeating all the conversations which took place around it. "I loved how she allowed the dining table to become a character itself," Lindbergh said. 

Corporate sponsors, including Federal Express and Investors Savings Bank, covered the entire cost of the event so that all funds raised will go directly to IHN. FedEx presented an additional $10,000 check at the close of the fundraising breakfast.

Donations are still being accepted and can be sent to Interfaith Hospitality Network of Essex County, 46 Park St., Montclair, N.J., 07042 or online @ www.ihnessexjn.org