T'was the Season for Giving!

Calvary opened in 1983 in the basement of Calvary Baptist Church as a temporary overnight shelter for homeless women. In response to the ongoing needs of the community, Calvary Women’s Shelter was incorporated and later became the Calvary Women’s Services. Calvary’s capacity and support services have grown consistently over the last 30 years. The programs carry out their mission to offer a safe, caring place for tonight and support, hope and change for tomorrow. These programs include transitional and permanent housing, personalized case management, life skills and education opportunities, job training, health and wellness services, on-site therapy and daily addiction recovery meetings. Calvary believes every woman has the strengths and gifts she needs to be successful. 

While no longer an official part of PMPI Community Outreach, there are still many dedicated PMPI members who jumped in to celebrate the newest residents of Sister Circle, Calvary’s permanent housing program. It is designed for the women who have graduated from the shelter system, are employed and living independently while continuing to receive long-term support. So in an effort to help foster the community spirit with the women that are in this program, a joyous holiday party was whipped together by our volunteer elves! 

Saturday, December 12, PMPI’s volunteer "elves" decked the halls of "Washington’s second best address, The Historic Mayflower, a Marriott Autograph Collection." General Manager John Montano and banquet staff generously hosted a lovely spread of gourmet treats. The amazing ladies of Travel Portland added the fragrance of the Pacific Northwest, providing fresh wreaths for the Sister Circle guests to proudly display on their very own front doors!

All of the volunteers sang carols, shared design tips and offered encouragement as the ladies delighted in selecting ribbons and gluing ornaments. Every women left with their florist-worthy wreath and a colorful gift bag filled with Bath and Body Works lotions and gels, Walmart gift cards, fuzzy socks and candy. 

The party was a great time and truly filled with the holiday spirit, summed up in this whispered comment, "I am so happy I could cry. Thank you for brightening my holiday!"

As we move into 2016, let’s "Resolve to Get Involved!" Not only will you meet amazing friends and have an opportunity to network with your peers, you will also gain the satisfaction of giving back to your community and truly making a difference.