Vision House

Did you miss our webinar last week, which provided information on why we are seeing such incredible growth in the number of families experiencing homelessness? This 30-minute conversation can be viewed here: https://lnkd.in/gJtEuxut.

Join us on Thursday, October 24th as Executive Director Derek Sciba shares about the growing crisis of family homelessness, and what we can do to provide meaningful support.

Just as school begins across Western Washington, local families living in cars, tents and doubled up with friends are asking for help at record rates, according to Renton-based Christian nonprofit Vision House. The organization provides transitional housing, programs and support services for families experiencing homelessness. In July alone, Vision House met with 97 homeless families, more than 50% higher than normal for a summer month. Considering the overall trend for 2024, Vision House expects to serve about 1,000 local families this year, a 25% -30% increase over last year. “Summer is always demanding – but Winter is always worse,” said Bri Baines, family transitions director at Vision House. “But this Summer, we’ve been slammed. I am worried about what this will mean as we get into the fall and winter months.” Evictions appear to be playing a role. Over the summer, Vision House caseworkers found about 40% of families needing help had been evicted. Normally, the rate of evictions for families served by the organization is around 10%. Vision House Executive Director Derek Sciba said credit and rental history are barriers for families trying to move from homelessness to permanent housing. “We’re working hard to help families rebuild credit and provide other solutions so that moms, dads and kids can finally find a home and stability,” said Sciba. The price of rent is uniquely prohibitive for low-income families in the metro area. At current rates, a single parent with kids would need to work two jobs in order to qualify for market-rate rental housing, leading to difficult decisions about where to stay and provide food and resources for children. “We believe in the worth of all people, and we’ll walk with families through their challenges,” said Sciba. “No parent should have to choose whether to pay rent, buy gas to get to work, or buy groceries to feed their children after school.” Hear more from Executive Director Derek Sciba by visiting?https://lnkd.in/eAYNKiE7

We are excited to have our Executive Director, Derek Sciba, as a guest on the latest episode of ‘Passion Meets Purpose’ with Sarah Taylor! Join Sarah and Derek in an inspiring conversation about seeing those who are often overlooked and believing in their potential. Click here to listen on Spotify: "Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness with Derek Sciba – Part 1" https://lnkd.in/grcMr9Hu

Blown away and grateful. More than $850,000 was given by people who believe family homelessness should end. That’s the financial outcome of the Vision House Luncheon, our biggest single fundraising event ever. So many people expressed to me that they are heartbroken by what Seattle-area families are facing, trying to make it in our expensive area – and then finding themselves in a crisis – living in cars or couch surfing. These donors came together and invested in a proven way to break family homelessness long-term. As I looked around the room I saw homebuilders, company owners, pastors, church members, political leaders, moms, dads, neighbors, friends, graduates of our program – a diverse group of folks. If you were there – if you’ve been a part of this initiative to free families from the pain of homelessness – thank you. It’s not just the work of our Vision House team, it’s not just those families we serve putting in the hard work, it’s all of us – coming together to make these life-changing outcomes possible.

Families experiencing homelessness are hurting right now. Housing is unaffordable and many local families are sleeping in their cars. My heart breaks for a mom or dad just trying to care for their kids and make sure they are safe each night. Every gift of $60 before the end of #GiveBIG (midnight on May 8) will DOUBLE to provide TWO nights of safety for a mom and her child experiencing homelessness. You’ll be making twice the difference! Give today by visiting https://lnkd.in/gC3vUEP6

Thank you to all our amazing volunteers for the many hours of service provided in 2023. We are so grateful for their faithful dedication to helping families. To see more of our 2023 annual report, visit https://lnkd.in/gbuzRtJH.

Did you know that when you sponsor the Vision House Luncheon you not only help families experiencing homelessness at Vision House, but you also give your business valuable exposure in the community. Email [email protected] to get your name in the Puget Sound Business Journal, on our website, on our social media, and on the event program!

We have IMMEDIATE OPENINGS in our Children’s Village Childcare in both Renton and Shoreline! Call now or visit our website to schedule a tour today!