We recently invited back several former residents to share their stories and give us an update on their lives since they've moved out of the shelter.
Tom, a former resident of Cross Roads House, recently returned to the shelter to provide an update on how things are going for him.
Several years ago Tom stayed at the shelter for 13 months. His wife had asked him to leave their home due to his abuse of alcohol. While he lived at the shelter he met regularly with his case manager who he still, to this day, credits with helping him rebuild his life.
He reflected on how appreciative he was that the staff at the shelter was nonjudgmental during his stay. During this very difficult time, he got the support he needed to get sober and get his life back on track.
After moving out of the shelter he eventually went back to school to earn his master's degree in counseling. He currently has a job in social services where he is able to use his counseling skills to help others. He also shared that he has reunited with his wife and their marriage is better than ever.
His life has come full circle and he feels it's rather miraculous that he is now so happy, healthy, and able to help others in need.
Learning About The Sea
Two of our young residents enjoy a hands-on experience with some sea creatures. The Seacoast Science Center recently brought a touch tank to the shelter during school vacation week.
Healthy Movements Fitness Club
Cross Roads House is offering a new "Healthy Movements" fitness program for residents. The program is a collaboration between the shelter, Families First Health and Support Center, and the UNH Cooperative Extension - Nutrition Connections Program. Twice a week instructors come to Cross Roads House to lead a variety of exercise classes and teach our residents about proper nutrition and healthy lifestyles.
Interested in supporting this great new program? We could use the following:
Fitness instructors willing to volunteer to teach a class
Fitness clothes
Various exercise DVD's
A small treadmill or stationary bike
If you have any of the above that you would like to donate, please contact Martha Stone at martha@crossroadshouse.org or 603-436-2218.
Volunteer Orientation - March 14
Have you ever considered volunteering at Cross Roads House?
Dinner for our shelter residents is prepared and served seven nights a week by volunteers and we could use your help! Find out more by attending our next Volunteer Orientation on Wednesday, March 14 from 5:30 - 6:30 pm at our shelter. The orientation will include a shelter tour, an overview of kitchen operations, volunteer expectations, and a chance to see that evening's volunteers in action!
Last month the American Red Cross moved into a small portion of the office space at our shelter. The decision to co-locate with another vital community partner came as a result of the Red Cross's assessment of local resources and their commitment to being good stewards of donated dollars.
"We are so pleased to have this opportunity to partner with Cross Roads House who is also committed to serving individuals and families living and working in our New Hampshire communities," said Maria White, CEO of the New Hampshire Region.
Chris Sterndale, Executive Director of Cross Roads House states, "We look forward to sharing this opportunity with the American Red Cross. We are confident this partnership will promote cost savings and efficiency measures while enhancing both organizations in our service delivery to the communities we serve."
