Bethany House Marks Homelessness Awareness Month
Every November, communities across the country observe National Homelessness Awareness Month, a time to educate, break down stigma, and build support for people facing housing instability. At Bethany House, this work is at the heart of who we are all year long. This season, we’re marking it by raising our voices for change and sharing the stories of the families we serve.
Marching for Affordable Housing
On Wednesday, October 21, eight Bethany House residents joined advocates from across the city for the National Day of Action for Affordable Housing. They marched from Piatt Park to City Hall and called on leaders to make safe, affordable housing a priority. Marching alongside them were the Sisters of Charity, whose legacy runs deep here: Bethany House was founded by two Sisters of Charity.
For the residents who marched, the issue isn’t abstract. Many know firsthand how a rent increase, a lost job, or a medical bill can impact housing security. Their presence showed that the people most affected by the housing crisis are also its most powerful advocates.
Sharing Stories of Courage and Hope
Destigmatizing homelessness has always been central to Bethany House’s mission. Too often, people experiencing homelessness are seen as stereotypes rather than parents, children, and neighbors. Listening to their stories changes that.
That’s the spirit behind Stories of Courage and Hope, a photojournalism exhibit created in partnership with A Picture’s Worth. Through striking portraits and their own words, eight people who received services from Bethany House share the importance and meaning of home, and the hope that guides them forward.
That same day, the exhibit was on display at Washington Park as part of FC Cincinnati’s pregame community day. In the coming months, the portraits will travel to locations throughout the city.
Bring the Exhibit to Your Community
Would you like to host Stories of Courage and Hope at your workplace, place of worship, or an upcoming event? It’s a meaningful way to spark conversation and show support for families working toward stable housing. To learn more, contact Megan Park at [email protected].
Stories of Courage and Hope on display at the FC Cincinnati Pregame Community Day.
