Left to Right — Paige, Jason, Kenny, Sharon, and Eddy.
In Front — Christine and Kim.
Left to Right, Jacob R - Facilities Director and Vinnie - Facilities Assistant
Melissa—Emergency Shelter Coordinator
Some of our employees representing the Neighborhood Center are featured above and on the cover of the printed version of our December newsletter. These individuals have come through our programs, worked very hard to get out of oppressed situations, and are now inspiring others. The common thread found from each who provided the quotes below is gratefulness.

They are the faces and the foundation of our mission, and we are joyful to share and celebrate their accomplishments with you as we end the year 2021.

“I give back to the mission through my work here because I will be forever grateful for the help the Neighborhood Center has brought into my life. Every day, I assist clients and help them find their way from homelessness into a new way of living their best life. This mission is very close to my heart as I was homeless, came here with just the clothes on my back, and completely changed my life around as a result. Through personal experiences, I can help clients gain knowledge of various situations. Forever grateful, I will remain. Life gives us a choice; we can either evolve or remain. My choice was to evolve.” Melissa—Emergency Shelter Coordinator

“After being released from an inpatient drug rehabilitation facility, I was offered a bed at the Neighborhood Center in the emergency shelter. I decided to take the offer instead of returning to the same toxic situation where                I couldn’t stay sober. It was the best move I could have made. That was seven years ago. I’ve since gotten my driver’s license reinstated after eight years.                   I have a new truck, and I live in my own house. I’m currently able to give back to the community by serving as shelter coordinator in the very emergency shelter where I once slept with only the clothes on my back. It’s an honor and a privilege to work at the place that helped me and is responsible for helping so many people and families in our community. It’s all about the love.” ❤ Kenny – Emergency Shelter Coordinator

“Being a part of the Neighborhood Center team means so much to me. A year ago, after a terrible relapse, I lost my house and all of my belongings. I was a shell of a person; they helped me pick up the pieces. I’ve been sober ever since. I love working here and helping people that have been in a similar situation as I—and seeing them grow and build a life when theirs had been torn down. Giving back and just being able to help people is my favorite part of the job. I am grateful to be a part of the team at the Neighborhood Center.” Paige—Customer Service Representative at the Thrift Store

“I like to begin each day with a grateful heart and have gone through the program here at the Neighborhood Center and now believe that all things are possible.” Eddy—Assistant Manager at the Thrift Store

“I came here with the clothes on my back, ready for a change, and was welcomed with open arms. I can’t describe in words how truly grateful I am.” Jason—Delivery Driver

“If not for the Neighborhood Center, I could never have achieved such peace in my life, professionally, and, more importantly, my private life. Thank you. My heart will always be here.” Christine—Bridge Shelter Coordinator

“They sheltered, rehoused, and employed me. I began working here doing court-ordered community service in 2018. Clients are surprised when I share my story; it gives them hope. Kim—Bridge Shelter Coordinator

“The Neighborhood Center gave me a safe place to stay until I could transition to a place of my own. I have been working here for four years, and it has given me the ability to give back to people in my previous situation. I always remember it could be me on the other side of the desk.” Sharon—Direct Care Case Manager

Thank you for joining us in our fight to end hunger and homelessness.

Homeless Prevention Services Year to Date September 2021

• 7,443 households in West Volusia received
Homeless Prevention Services.
• 920 of these individuals were SENIORS.
• 888 of these individuals were CHILDREN.
• 115,245 meals were distributed through our food pantry,
representing over $448,175.00
of “In-Kind” food donations to NHC.
• 289 of these households received financial assistance with their utility bills.
• 256 of these households received financial assistance with their rent.
• 167 bus passes were given to individuals to get jobs, go to medical appointments, or secure housing.
• 4,184 individuals received referrals to medical services and health care navigation through our West Volusia Hospital Authority programs.

Housing for the Formerly Homeless
Transitional and Emergency Housing Services -
Year to Date September 2021

• 267 unduplicated individuals received Emergency Shelter
or Transitional Housing services.
• 144 formerly homeless households found homes so far
this year through NHC Rapid Rehousing programs.

Permanent Supportive Housing Services
• 23 people are currently living in our CHDO units
• 21 people are currently living in our NSP units
• 67 people are currently living in our HUD units

Performance Metrics at the Bridge
November 2021
• Current Census: 30
• Bridge Resident Clients Served November 2021: 32
• Non-Resident Clients Served – Since Inception: 1,940
• Clients Moved to Housing – Since Inception: 65
• Clients that Found Work – Since Inception: 130
• Meals Served-Since Inception: 58,500
• Volunteer Hours - Since Inception: 60,561
• Cold Weather Shelter Nights – This Year: 9
‌
*According to our most recent 2020 audit

Your year-end tax-deductible gift to the Neighborhood Center not only generates an impact locally, but you will be happy to know that 89% of each dollar donated goes directly into our programs and services, benefiting and changing lives like those featured here.

For 52 years, our mission has been to house the homeless, feed the hungry, and prevent homelessness throughout West Volusia communities. We can do so only because of our donors, sponsors, volunteers, and staff.

Thanks to all for making 2021 a stellar year for the agency.

We look forward with love and hope to help more neighbors and families as we continue to serve the community and our clients in 2022.

Best Wishes to all for a
Joyous Holiday Season!
Our Thrift Store and Administration Offices will be Closed
December 24 - 27 Christmas Holiday
December 31 - New Years Holiday
Coming up in January
Thank you for your support. Happy Holidays!