Linda and Friends
Helping Hands
Who we are
The homelessness crisis in Pennsylvania is a significant issue, with a rate of 11 homeless individuals per 10,000 people in the general population. The state has seen a steady increase in homelessness over the years, with the total number of people experiencing homelessness fluctuating between 13,512 and 16,220 from 2007 to 2018. Homelessness in Lansdale, PA, is a growing concern, with the borough and county officials acknowledging the crisis and working to address it. The issue has been ongoing for the past two years, with discussions between borough officials and Montgomery County officials focusing on the increasing number of unhoused individuals in Lansdale. Despite efforts to promote individuals to seek shelter indoors or alternative shelter, the lack of a homeless shelter in Montgomery County presents a significant challenge. The Faith Community has opened spaces for CODE Blue shelters in Lansdale, providing temporary shelter for the homeless. However, the demand for these shelters exceeds their capacity, highlighting the urgent need for more resources and support for the homeless population in Lansdale and Montgomery County as a whole.
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Our mission is to provide food, clothing and items needed for daily living to those in need and, importantly, provide guidance to ultimately allow individuals to be more self-sufficient. Ultimately, we'd like to find short term housing, allowing people to stabilize their lives and then address other challenges, like long-term housing, employment, and benefits as it is nearly impossible for these individuals to stabilize their lives while they remain on the streets.
Since our mission began, we've made a significant impact. We've temporarily housed more than 6 women in hotels during the cold winter months, supplied hot meals to over 8 individuals during the weekend nights, successfully found permanent housing for several individuals, and helped several individuals gain employment and get food stamps and medical assistance. One woman is pursuing her GED. Those who are employed are saving money to get their own car which will provide them flexibility to pursue better jobs. When individuals who were previously homeless and unemployed secure jobs, they have the opportunity to uplift themselves.
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Board of directors
We are thrilled to have dedicated volunteers on our Board of Directors. These individuals bring a wealth of experience, passion, and commitment to our mission, ensuring that our organization remains at the forefront of addressing the needs of our community. Their roles encompass a broad spectrum of responsibilities, from strategic planning and fundraising to direct involvement in our programs and advocacy efforts. Their contributions are invaluable, not only in the day-to-day operations of our organization but also in their ability to inspire and motivate others to join us in our mission. We are grateful for their dedication and look forward to the positive impact they will make on our community and the lives of those we serve.
Linda Rowland
President and Chair
Glenn Rowland
Director
Paul Manoogian
Director
Gail McIntyre
Secretary and Director
REnee Armstead
Director
Don Gallagher
Director
Jude Sweeney
Treasurer and Director
Michelle McNally
Director
Governance
Our bylaws and conflict of interest documents are essential components of our governance structure, designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and the protection of our mission. The bylaws outline the operational guidelines and decision-making processes of our organization, ensuring that all activities align with our core values and objectives. The conflict of interest policy, on the other hand, is crucial for maintaining the integrity of our operations. It helps to identify and manage situations where the personal interests of our board members, officers, or employees might conflict with the best interests of our non-profit. This policy is not only a legal requirement but also a strategic measure to avoid any appearance of impropriety and to uphold our commitment to serving the public good. Together, these documents form the foundation of our governance, ensuring that our organization operates ethically, responsibly, and in the best interest of those we serve