The organization runs two main programs. The residential shelter has seven beds for homeless mothers and babies, who can stay for up to two years while receiving intensive case management, including education support, parenting classes, budgeting help, and housing search assistance. The outreach program serves families from pregnancy through a child's second birthday with diapers, clothing, food, and appointment support, and does not require a housing crisis to qualify. Last year the organization served 558 total families, welcomed 196 babies, logged 1,500 pantry visits, and gave 213 moms holiday gifts for their children. The waiting list has grown from about 10 to 20 families in the past month, and Wendy noted the organization is one of the only local resources for homeless pregnant women without other children.
Wendy described the range of situations families come from, including domestic violence and trafficking survivors, and how the Life House partners with organizations like NAMI and Turning Point when a family's needs go beyond what the shelter can provide, such as active substance recovery or severe mental health needs.
How Rotarians can help and support:
- Baby Bottle Campaign: distribute bottles to members to collect spare change and small donations toward this year's $52,000 goal
- Volunteer: help with tasks like holding and rocking babies, or covering early-morning childcare gaps before daycare opens https://caygalgonlifehouse.org/volunteer/
- Donate supplies: diapers, wipes, and children's clothing are always needed, especially during spring cleaning season
- Attend upcoming events: Casks and Forks on August 19 at Black River Farms (paid ticketed event), the OLA Fun shopping and raffle event in November, and the annual gala (the organization's largest fundraiser)
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