Follow Me To ... La Casa (#48)

Washington D.C., operated by Friendship Place

HOME - a four-letter-word that means so much to so many, but even more to 40 men who call La Casa home - forty men who are particularly vulnerable and who were previously homeless.  This stunning 7 story building on Irving Street is a model for D.C. and the nation as it provides comprehensive on-site case management, supportive services, 24 hour staffing, and permanent housing to 40 residents.  La Casa, funded by D.C.'s DHS and operated by Friendship Place, believes that stable housing is a must before other needs can be addressed.  Residents at La Casa have their own private apartments and meet regularly with case managers to assess their needs and connect them to resources.  There are community activities and it is close to public transportation and employment opportunities... 

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Today, Friendship Place hosted its first pop-up clothing closet to offer clothing, shoes, and accessories to residents.  Everything was presented impeccably and was worthy of the beautiful location.  Tables and racks were filled with tops, bottoms, coats, business suits, shoes, ties, and other necessities and were neatly arranged according to size. Volunteers assisted guests with selections.  Some were quiet, shy, and unsure how to take our compliments; others were decisive, fashionable, and doled out compliments to us!  Everything offered was in terrific condition, many with dry cleaning tags still attached, and the entire experience was hosted with dignity.  We helped about 15 -18 residents, all of whom were genuinely appreciative.  One man selected so many items, he needed help back to his apartment; I was more than happy to assist.  Along the way, he schooled me on history and outer space (I knew very little about the later) as he used to be a teacher.  He was very interesting and I could have learned a lot from him had there been more time.  I wish I could have come in for coffee! 

My Takeaways:  (1)  Oftentimes, its easier to accept something bad if we can point a finger or assign blame - maybe because that leaves us less liable for fixing it!  Some would like to do this about homelessness and would like to think they are lazy, not educated, and/or chose addiction and despair.  In fact, homelessness can come quickly and without warning - you can become sick or disabled, you may suddenly lose your job or have to quit school, you may suffer a great personal loss and/or have no one to turn to - the reasons are endless but the reality is harsh.  The men I met today were kind, intelligent, and worthy of their safe, clean, and supportive home.  (2)  Though I had fun styling residents and know that a woman's opinion came in handy, I got the most pleasure from watching a pair of male volunteers who worked with the guests in the back of the room.  They helped with business suits and dress shirts and for everyone they fitted, they also made the men feel handsome and confident.  They treated them the way I imagine they'd treat their own families - the way it should be!  (3)  In-kind donations do a lot of good, so keep recycling what you no longer need (but make sure it is clean and in good repair).  Consider, however, taking it an extra step and watch it be appreciated by someone in need - that makes it a gift for you too!