Family Spotlight: Edward

Following the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010, Edward lost his job in that industry and subsequently it was difficult for the family to make ends meet. Services for families nearing homelessness were overburdened in the South. When Edward and his wife recognized they needed to find a homeless shelter it was especially important to them that they stay in a shelter as a family unit, with both parents and their two boys all together.

They decided to head north to find work and a shelter where they could be together as a family. Though Robin searched online and called countless shelters, she had a difficult time finding one that would take the whole family. Finally, she spoke to the Interfaith Hospitality Network of Greater Cleveland emergency shelter and learned that their entire family was welcome there. Upon arriving, they found just what they had been looking for: a safe place where they could stay together and have people who care about them while they got back on their feet.

Robin, Edward, and their two sons spent about 60 days at IHN. They speak of the kindness with which they were treated by staff members and volunteers. They then moved to Interim Housing at New Life Community. Both Robin and Edward have work experience and hoped to find employment in food service. They worked tirelessly in their employment searches, even venturing out in one of the worst blizzards of the year to hand out resumes and meet potential employers.

Robin, Edward, Mason and Louis represent the true meaning of Family Promise. They came hundreds of miles to rebuild their lives after a setback. After several months of hard work, they are now living in the Family Promise Bridge Home to continue their transition. Robin is a currently working as a waitress and Edward is interviewing for jobs. The children have handled the transition very well, having benefitted from the children’s programming and stability offered by the services that now make up Family Promise of Greater Cleveland. It is our pleasure to inspire and empower this family to transform their lives, become self-sufficient, and fulfill their promise