Community Relations Committee Members Lend a Helping Hand

On July 30, Community Relations Committee members Ginny O’Brien, Karen Cahill, and Tom Schlutow met at St. Paul’s new supportive housing program in Rensselaer to help clear some brush for their new parking lot.

St. Paul’s supportive housing program is a combination of housing and supportive services that provide families with an affordable way to move from homelessness to a sustainable future.  This housing model works well for those who face the most complex challenges.  Eligible families direct 30% of their income toward rent in addition to receiving monthly rental assistance and case management support that provides life skill development, medical support, advocacy services, and enrichment activities for all members of the family.  Dedicated case managers work with families to address the causes of housing instability that stand in the way of a self-sustaining future.

During the workday, committee members also donated masks for St. Paul’s shelter. Executive Director Tracy Pitcher was thrilled to receive the masks and noted they were quickly claimed by the residents.  Special appreciation goes out to Jean Lavoie for making 100 masks!  The committee is distributing them to organizations throughout the area.

The Community Relations Committee will also be continuing to honor front-line heroes.  Community Relations Committee Chair, Amanda Blanchard said members will visit Saratoga Hospital in late September to bring lunch to staff members to recognize them for the hard work and dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pictured Karen Cahill, Ginny O’Brien, and Tom Schlutow present Meghan Meyerson (St. Paul’s) with masks for the residents of St. Paul’s Center.