Every day RPM Vesta works with people who are looking for a place to live, and we’re proud to be able to offer quality homes to our customers. I’d like to use this space, though, to offer some perspective on housing that I’ve gained from serving on the Advisory Council for Macon’s Daybreak shelter.
More people in our community than I would have imagined lack clean, safe, and affordable housing. Some are without any home at all; some live in places without heat or running water; and some move week to week staying with friends and family.
Daybreak is a day shelter that serves the immediate needs of those in our community who lack access to amenities that most of us take for granted. The center offers hot breakfasts, shower facilities, and laundry services to their participants. Twice a week, nurse practitioners open an on-site clinic where medical needs are met. Participants use Daybreak’s computers and telephones to search for work or reconnect with family. In short, Daybreak offers safety, dignity, and a fighting chance to those who live on the margins of our society.
Last year Daybreak welcomed over 2,000 individuals to the center. 64 participants found jobs, and 77 found permanent housing. 4,000 appointments were kept in the clinic, and volunteers contributed over 10,000 hours of service.
On February 25, Daybreak will host the Third Annual Greater Macon Sleepout. Macon’s residents are invited to show solidarity with Daybreak’s clients by sleeping in the park for just one night. I’m planning to be there, and I’m hoping to raise $1,000 or more to help Daybreak meet its financial needs in the coming year.
Daybreak receives no government funding, and approximately a quarter of the budget each year is given by a dozen or so churches in Macon. The remainder of the budget must be raised through contributions from individuals and grant making organizations.
Sleepout is Daybreak’s largest fundraiser of the year. Please contact me at bsapp@rpmvesta.com if you’d like to help. Gifts to Daybreak are tax deductible, and contributions of any amount will be appreciated. Checks should be made payable to Depaul USA, and I’ll be happy to arrange a time to pick up your donation.
Learn more, here.