The Family Promise Family Day Center has been abuzz with activity for over a month now. We are happy to be hosting a family with 11 children ages 12 and under – our largest family to date! The community has been generous with people giving their time to tutor children, donating diapers and swim passes, and meeting the many needs of a family in crisis. Yesterday a tricycle appeared out of nowhere, and a 3 year old was thrilled to learn how to pedal. It’s these small acts of kindness that continue to amaze me.

The First Project Homeless Connect event in Bozeman was held on July 12th. It exceeded our wildest expectations with 98 homeless individuals and families receiving services. 54 family members in 17 families and 44 individuals participated in the one-day one-stop human service innovation. Dentists performed 25 screenings, 5 cleanings and 6 extractions; 7 immunizations were given, 12 child developmental screenings, 4 well-child exams; 4 HIV tests, 36 vision screenings; 40 people received haircuts; 85 clothing vouchers were given and 16 individuals received transportation to the free clothing store in Belgrade; 120 hamburgers and 80 hot dogs were served and there was music, massages, and bike repair in the park.

Even more important than the number of services provided, was the manner in which they were provided. Volunteer hosts offered individual help to everyone that entered. People smiled and treated everyone with hospitality. When someone needed a bike part that wasn't there, someone ran and got one. Dentists were only going to do screenings, but expanded their services when they saw people in pain. What surprised me most was the number of families and young adults that attended. The statistic that families with children is the fastest growing group of homeless was evident. The entire event affirmed my belief in the Family Promise ‘interfaith hospitality network’ approach to ending homelessness.

Jen from the Bozeman United Methodist Church (where showers are available for homeless persons 6 days a week) writes this: “ I wish you could be at my desk this week to see the change each and every one of you have given to our street people. They all have a greater sense of ‘being’ this week – like Bill said, ‘I didn't know so many people cared about me until Saturday.’

See? You never know when miracles are going to happen!

— Gloria Edwards

“When we do
the best that we can,
we never know
what miracle is wrought
in our life,
or in the life of another.”

— Helen Keller”