How very often we hear our guests at the Room In The Inn express their desire for “a place of my own.” They are most appreciative of their step from shelters and living “under the bridge” to the warm hospitality of Room In The Inn, and they look hopefully to once again having a home of their own. When one member of the group announces she is moving to a new home, the entire group celebrates.
The Next Step Fund was established at All Souls in 2008 to help these women realize their dream. Many parishioners from All Souls have contributed to the fund which assists in paying security deposits, monthly rents, and housing debt repair for apartments or homes. The women are most grateful for this assistance that helps them take the Next Step toward a new and better life. Homeward Bound’s RITI continues to provide support in independent living if the need arises.
There are many beautiful stories of women from all walks in life who, because of circumstances often beyond their control, have found themselves homeless. You will perhaps hear some of these stories during this month when Homeward Bound presents a two-part series on homelessness in Asheville and how All Souls can support the efforts to end homelessness in our community.
The Next Step Fund is one way we can support this effort. We hope you will consider a gift to this fund (make your check to The Cathedral of All Souls and tag it Next Step Fund). The fund was established in 2008 by Diane and Bill Russell in memory of their daughter Leslie who died in 2007. Leslie was a member of All Souls and active in the Room In The Inn program.