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October
A Month of Awareness & Advocacy
As we step into October, we reflect on the significance of this month and its role in raising awareness for several important causes, especially those closely aligned with our mission as a sober living emergency shelter for women and children. From Breast Cancer Awareness to Substance Abuse Prevention and Domestic Violence Awareness, October provides an opportunity for education, advocacy, and support.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
We stand in solidarity with the millions of women affected by breast cancer. Early detection saves lives, and we encourage all women in our community to stay informed about regular screenings and self-exams. The emotional and financial burdens of breast cancer can be overwhelming, especially for women facing homelessness or transitional living situations. Our goal is to provide resources and support to help women prioritize their health even in the most challenging circumstances. We strive to educate our residents about the importance of mammograms and access to medical services, partnering with local health organizations, Zonta and Womankind to provide referrals and screenings. For many women who are fighting both personal battles and the stress of housing insecurity, knowing they are supported through this journey is invaluable.
Substance Abuse Prevention Month
Substance Abuse Prevention Month Substance Abuse Prevention is another crucial focus in October, and one that hits close to home for us. As a sober living facility, we are deeply committed to helping women reclaim their lives from the grips of addiction. October offers a chance to emphasize the importance of prevention, recovery, and the lifelong journey toward sobriety. We provide a safe, supportive environment where women can break free from addiction, working closely with them to set goals for lasting recovery. Substance abuse often affects entire families, which is why we also focus on breaking the cycle for children in our shelter. We educate mothers on the importance of creating a substance-free home environment, offer counseling, and connect them with community resources to assist them in their recovery journey.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Many women who come to Samuel’s House have fled abusive relationships. Domestic violence is a devastating issue, and October shines a light on the need for prevention, support, and safety for survivors. We provide a safe haven for these women and children, offering case management and counseling services to help them heal and rebuild their lives. • Mental Health Awareness: Many of our residents struggle with mental health issues, which can be exacerbated by trauma, homelessness, and substance abuse. October’s mental health awareness initiatives remind us to prioritize mental well-being as part of the recovery process. We offer access to mental health services, encouraging holistic healing for the women and families we serve.
Our Commitment to Advocacy At Samuel’s House, October is not just a month for awareness—it’s a time for action. Through education, support services, and advocacy, we work tirelessly to ensure that our residents have the tools they need to overcome adversity and build healthier, more hopeful futures. We encourage everyone to get involved this month by learning more about these causes, volunteering, and supporting organizations like ours that provide critical resources to those in need.
Let’s make October a month of hope, healing, and empowerment for women and children in our community. Along with several community partners, we offer a range of services to help those in need, including emergency shelter, hot meals, job training, and healthcare referrals.
Thank you Community Foundation of the Florida Keys!
Enhancing Our Outdoor Space for Women with Children
Enhancing Our Outdoor Space for Women with Children
Enhancing Our Outdoor Space for Women with Children
This September, we want to express our deep gratitude to The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys whose grant funds made it possible to complete a beautiful new outdoor pergola and space at one of our facilities. This addition is more than just a structure—it represents new opportunities for the women and families we serve. The new pergola provides a safe, comfortable environment where mothers can utilize laptops to study or work on their program goals, all while being able to watch their children play nearby.
A Space for Productivity and Play
Enhancing Our Outdoor Space for Women with Children
Enhancing Our Outdoor Space for Women with Children
This space is a vital resource, offering a sense of normalcy, peace, and productivity for the residents of the Mary Spottswood Women's Center as they work towards stability and independence. We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support from our community, whose contributions allow us to enhance our services and improve the lives of those we serve. Together, we’re building a brighter future for women, children, and families in Key West. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us! At Samuel's House Inc., we are dedicated to providing shelter, food, and support services to the homeless population in our community. Our goal is to help those in need get back on their feet and become self-sufficient.
ONE UPSTAIRS UNIT AVAILABLE FOR RENT AT KATHY'S HOPE
Samuels' House has several affordable units available for women and women with children
- ONE unit is currently available on the second floor.
- Downstairs units were recently renovated.
- Each unit has private bathroom.
- This is a communal space with shared kitchen and living room.
- Safe space for women and children in a sober living environment.
- Housing is centrally located in new town, close to shopping and public transportation.
For more information and to schedule a site visit, call 305-296-0240 or email tara@samuelshouse.org
Photos of Kathy's Hope Upstairs, Shared Living Room & Kitchen Areas
Community Partner Spotlight
employU Services
This month we are proud to highlight the services of one of our Community Partners, employU. employU is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through comprehensive employment services.
employU offers a range of personalized programs including job coaching, pre-employment training, and career counseling, designed to help clients develop the skills necessary for sustainable and fulfilling employment.
Their holistic approach focuses on each person’s unique abilities, providing a path to success tailored to their specific strengths and goals. For our residents, especially those facing additional challenges like disabilities, employU’s support opens new doors to independence and self-sufficiency. Through their vocational rehabilitation services and specialized programs for adults and youth, employU works hand-in-hand with clients to build career paths, offering long-term solutions that align with personal and professional aspirations.
This collaboration has been instrumental in helping some of the most vulnerable members of our community gain confidence, job readiness, and employment opportunities. We are deeply grateful for employU’s commitment to fostering inclusive employment, and we look forward to continuing our work together to uplift those in need. For more information about employU and their impactful programs, visit their website at https://employu.org/
Celebrating Independence and Gratitude
As we celebrate the Fourth of July, we take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of independence and express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supports our mission. This day marks the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, a time to honor the values of freedom, equality, and hope. At Samuel’s House, these ideals inspire us every day as we work to provide a safe haven for women, children, and families in need.
We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our community, whose generosity and compassion make our work possible. To our dedicated volunteers, your time, energy, and kindness help us build a brighter future for those we serve. To our donors, your contributions provide essential resources and opportunities for growth and transformation. To our partners and advocates, your collaboration strengthens our efforts and amplifies our impact. On this Fourth of July, we celebrate not just the freedoms we enjoy but also the collective efforts that enable us to extend hope and support to others.
As we gather with loved ones and reflect on our nation’s values, let us also remember the importance of extending those values through acts of service and compassion. Thank you for standing with us as we work to create a community where everyone has the chance to find stability, hope, and independence. We wish you all a joyful and meaningful Independence Day filled with gratitude and celebration.
Happy Fourth of July from all of us at Samuel’s House!
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY
This Father's Day, Samuel's House honors all the fathers who play a crucial role in the lives of their children and families. Fathers are pillars of strength, guidance, and love. Today we celebrate their unwavering dedication and the positive impact they have on our community.
At Samuel's House, we understand the importance of family, and we are grateful for the fathers who support and inspire their loved ones every day. Whether through moments of joy or challenges, your resilience and compassion make a world of difference.
To all the fathers in our community and beyond, we wish you a wonderful Father's Day filled with love, appreciation, and blessings.
Thank you for providing guidance and for being the role models for your children so they may be loving and supportive dads for their families.
BLESSINGS UPON BLESSINGS
At Samuel’s House, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the countless blessings upon blessings we receive every day. From the unwavering support of our dedicated volunteers and generous donors to the resilience and strength of the families we serve, our hearts are full. Words cannot fully express our appreciation for the community that stands with us, ensuring that women, children, and families in need find shelter, hope, and a path to a brighter future. Thank you for being an integral part of our mission and for continuously showering us with your kindness and compassion.
On May 3rd CPI Security blessed Samuel's House with 110 of their staff members who volunteered while visiting Key West on a corporate retreat.
A connection initially made with us 10 years ago through our beloved Cheryl Cates and reconnected with us again through our treasured board member Jackie Herbst.
These generous, kind and enthusiastic volunteers painted the exterior of the shelter, the white gate inside and out, the sheds and conex box as well as all the doors.
They donated their precious time, supplies to paint and made a donation toward the much needed replacement of our computers.
On June 5th Samuel's House Board Member Casey Arnold and his Southernmost Scavenger Hunt team (Shannon Mahaffey, Jay, Casey Patton and Mack Desmond) hosted a 160-person Scavenger Hunt for a corporate retreat staying at the Casa Marina who wanted to give back to a local organization in a fun and exciting way. They decided on a Back-Pack-Give-Back Program!
26 Teams were given 3 backpacks each with the goal to stuff them full of school supplies while out on the Scavenger Hunt in Key West. As a result this amazing group donated
backpacks filled with to the brim with more than $7500 of schools supplies.
Thank you Casey Arnold, The Southernmost Scavenger Hunt team, the generous Corporation, Key West Monopoly, Mandy Bolen Miles and Britt Myers at The Keys Weekly Newspapers for covering this blessing and ALL who contributed to this blessing.
ESSENTIAL STEPS FOR HURRICANE SEASON IN MONROE COUNTY
BE PREPARED
As we enter June, the beginning of hurricane season, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of preparedness, especially for the most vulnerable members of our community.
At Samuel’s House, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of women, children, and families. One of the key ways to achieve this is through proper hurricane preparedness.
Understanding the Risks Monroe County, with its unique geographical location, is highly susceptible to hurricanes. These powerful storms can cause severe flooding, property damage, and power outages. Being prepared can make a significant difference in minimizing the impact on our community. Floridians have been cautioned that the 2024 hurricane season is predicted to be an active one. While this does not mean all active storms will follow the path to Florida, it is best to be prepared just in case.
ESSTENTIAL STEPS FOR HURRICAN PREPAREDNESS
1. **Create an Emergency Supply Kit**
An emergency supply kit is a crucial component of hurricane preparedness. It should contain essential items that can sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours. According to Monroe County's guidelines, your kit should include: - Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three days - Food: Non-perishable food items for at least three days - Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert - Flashlight and extra batteries - First aid kit - Medications: A seven-day supply of prescription medications - Multi-purpose tool - Sanitation and personal hygiene items - Copies of personal documents - Cell phone with chargers - Emergency contact information - Extra cash - Blankets or sleeping bags For a comprehensive list and additional details, please visit the [Monroe County Emergency Management’s website](http://www.monroecountyem.com/895/2-Create-an-Emergency-Supply-Kit).
2. **Develop a Family Emergency Plan**
Ensure every family member knows what to do in the event of a hurricane. Discuss evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and a designated meeting place if separated. Practice your plan regularly.
3. **Stay Informed**
Keep abreast of weather forecasts and warnings. Sign up for emergency alerts through Monroe County’s notification system. Follow reliable sources such as the National Hurricane Center and local news channels.
4. **Secure Your Home**
Install storm shutters or board up windows. - Secure loose outdoor items. - Trim trees and shrubs to reduce potential damage from high winds. - Review your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage.
5. **Help Your Community**
Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with disabilities. - Volunteer with local shelters and emergency services. - Donate supplies to local shelters and organizations aiding in disaster relief.
Special Considerations for Shelters For those residing in emergency shelters, here are some additional tips:
**Know the Location**
Identify the nearest emergency shelter and the route to get there.
**Prepare Personal Items**
Pack personal items such as identification, medications, and a change of clothes.
**Understand Shelter Policies**
Be aware of the shelter's rules, including those related to pets and medical needs.
Hurricane preparedness is a shared responsibility that can save lives and reduce the impact of these natural disasters. At Samuel’s House, we urge everyone in Monroe County to take these steps seriously and prepare now. By doing so, we can ensure the safety and resilience of our community during hurricane season. For more information and resources, visit the [Monroe County Emergency Management’s website](http://www.monroecountyem.com/895/2-Create-an-Emergency-Supply-Kit).
