Impact

A Note from Jennifer Gaeta SSS, LCSW, Executive Director

I am happy to report that Los Angeles House of Ruth (LAHR) is helping homeless women and children more than ever. In fiscal year 2021-22, we provided shelter, food, and clothing to 125 women and 150 children; emergency goods and clothing to 90 families; case management services to 68 families; permanent housing for 42 families and referrals for emergency services to over 500 individuals. That was a lot of work! With increased funding, our goal is to acquire additional shelter houses and increase the number of families we serve in 2023.

I believe that the ultimate success of LAHR’s programs can be seen in the success of our clients. Here is the story of one of our staff members, who personally understands the impact that LAHR has on women in need.

“I was in an abusive marriage for years before my husband got himself arrested long enough for me to escape. I became a resident of LAHR and quickly moved into permanent housing. I was resolved to make the changes I needed to live independently, so I participated in domestic violence counseling, attended a women’s support group, and took part in every program that LAHR had to offer. With this support to back me up, I regained my strength. I was offered employment at LAHR, and have been a member of the Childcare Staff for 10 years. I have also taken the classes necessary to host a daycare program in my own home. Today, I am proud to say that my three sons have grown into really stable and functional young men. Three years ago, I married a good man who was thoroughly “vetted” by the entire LAHR team. Together, we have started a family, and I am living happily and securely thanks to the support that I received at LAHR.” — Maya

Maya is just one of the thousands of women who have profoundly changed their lives and are living bright futures thanks to LAHR’s programs.

LAHR’s programs naturally foster a spirit of compassion in our clients. Our programs have saved children who have grown up and graduated from excellent colleges. These former child residents are now adults with the ability and heart to give back to their communities. Several are Social Welfare graduates and therapists who have developed the heart necessary to work with persons in need.

I want to personally thank everyone who makes the success of our programs possible; former clients, our staff, our Board of Directors, our corporate partners, individual donors, and the foundations who generously support LAHR’s mission.

If you would like to support the expansion of our services, we invite you to get involved and/or to consider a donation.