Friends & Family, 

I hope that you and your loved ones had a wonderful Christmas and wish you good health, joy, love, and peace throughout 2025. That is my prayer for all peoples, but statistics show us that many people experience unforeseen circumstances which result in dire consequences, including homelessness.

As an advocate for YWCA Clinton’s Empowerment Center, I am aware of the crucial work the staff undertake daily with/for the homeless and near homeless in our community. Last month, YWCA Clinton hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the Supportive Housing Project which will be a 24-apartment unit which will help to address the growing homelessness in our community. (for additional information please see: https://www.ywcaclinton.org/supportivehousing or if you have questions/concerns please ask!

On February 22, 2025, I will once again participate the Coldest Night of Year (CNOY) a relatively short walk in the cold. This event raises funds for the Empowerment Center to support our vulnerable brothers and sisters but also my eyes to the daily experiences of these individuals. While I will be dressed for the cold and only exposed to it for about an hour, many people endure this 24/7 without adequate clothing.

I would appreciate your support in my endeavor to help the Empowerment Center. So, will you donate to on behalf of my endeavor? Your donation will make a huge difference in the lives of those who benefit from YWCA Clinton's great work. You can donate to my cause through the link below – give securely online using a credit card or Paypal, and you’ll receive a charitable receipt immediately.  Click here to donate: https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/FundraisingPage.aspx?registrationID=5453888&langPref=en-CA 
OR, you can send a check - payable to me - & I will make a check to cover your donation /cash to me at 796 Springdale Dr. Clinton, IA 52732

Any donation amount would be greatly appreciated!

Perhaps you know someone or a family experiencing homelessness? I would invite you to read two informative books: "The Emptiness of Our Hands" by Phyllis Cole-Dai and James Murray, and "Practicing Presence: Insights from the Streets" by Phyllis Cole-Dai, that I read last Lent. Both were eye-opening and life-changing reads, sharing the authors stories of being present among chronically homeless people in Columbus, OH.

Please contact me with any questions. If you’re interested in joining me on February 22nd for the CNOY Day, please let me know – I’d love the company on the walk or at the gathering afterwards.

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
With gratitude and appreciation,
Kathy