In 2006, one of my students, Laura Marrin, organized a camp for children who were part of Sojourner House’s programs. As all had witnessed domestic abuse, Camp Eureka provided a welcome respite filled with fun, games, and friendships. This summer we celebrate our 10th anniversary, as Sojourner House celebrates its 40th anniversary, and I have devoted the equivalent of one teaching class to volunteer at Sojourner House.
The services that Sojourner House provides–group programs, parenting classes assistance in finding jobs and housing, expressive art classes for children, and free HIV testing are crucial to helping people escape the trap of domestic violence.
One parent wrote about Camp Eureka: “you make kids learn to enjoy life in a healthy way and leave a beautiful mark on my children’s lives.”
A counselor wrote after dropping a camper off at Sojourner House: “Whenever I am disappointed by the results of a test or a tough varsity football loss, I think about the kids at Camp Eureka, kids like Juan, whose lives are far more difficult than I could ever imagine. That bus ride home was the first time I realized I needed to change my perspective and the last time I truly felt sorry for myself.”
Supporting Sojourner House, with your contribution doubled by a challenge grant from the NE Patriots, will aid families who need support and enrich Camp Eureka for the upcoming summer.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
Sojourner House provides safe, affordable housing to victims of relationship violence, and that’s just the beginning.