Community made TIPS events successful

On behalf of Transitions in Progress Services, I want to thank everyone who joined us in commemorating National Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week on Nov. 15-21.

Paul Graves organized a Bonner County Circles Initiative “Big View” meeting that was widely attended and participated in by, among others, a number of our local public officials who learned firsthand the nature of homelessness from those neighbors who have actually experienced it and have overcome many challenges to regain their footing with the help of local professionals, volunteers and service organizations. In addition, we held a moving candlelight vigil after the meeting to honor those homeless who passed away this past year, including our neighbor Tim Fury. Thank you to the First Presbyterian Church for the use of their facilities.

Marilyn Chambers and the dedicated group at The Gardenia Center graciously hosted our first community Thanksgiving Dinner. We served about 200 meals of turkey and all the fixings consisting entirely of generously donated food, served by an army of volunteers from our community. Our surplus food was donated to Kinderhaven, The Bonner Gospel Mission and the Methodist Church.

The primary goal of increasing awareness of homelessness and hunger in our community was achieved. We at TIPS, along with the other local service providers, will continue to enhance and expand the delivery of impactful services to those of our neighbors who are touched by homelessness and hunger and in need of assistance.

We are extremely grateful to part of this special, diverse community and enjoy the support of its many residents.  We look forward to next year’s events.

We wish everyone a joyous and safe holiday season.

Craig Koester

Sandpoint

President, Board of Directors

TIPS