Santa Monica FUMC

Sunday, June 1, 1997 was a glorious day. I remember it well because it was the opening celebration of Family Place - transitional housing for homeless families with minor children. Our church turned its parking lot into homes for those in need. We celebrated in church that Sunday with praise and thanksgiving. We then marched from church carrying banners, gifts, a large quilt, Blessing Boxes and welcome baskets. Church members filled each apartment with sheets, towels, pot and pans.

Today we celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of Upward Bound House of Santa Monica FAMILY PLACE. The 22 unit “Welcome Mat” of Family Place envelops families who have lost their permanent residence. Family Place is Santa Monica’s only transitional housing program for children and their parents. It offers 21 apartments of free housing and a variety of support services. A Resident Manager lives on site. Case managers guide the parents with their employment and financial goals. The children attend our local schools.

How does one measure success? By the lives saved, the hearts touched, the money raised, the goals met? I measure the success of Upward Bound House-Family Place by the more than 630 children who have been given a home, safety, comfort, stability and education. I measure the success by a parking lot transformed to homes for over 300 families since its opening in June 1997. I measure success by witnessing our church embracing and interacting daily with these new sisters and brothers we prayed to welcome and serve.

Yesterday, Girl Scouts carried baskets filled with toiletries and small gifts to Family Place. Church members marched from their Sunday service with ribbons and banners, a handmade quilt and Blessing Boxes filled with needed household items and words of encouragement. Today, a local woman’s group decorates every apartment with fluffy new towels, sheets, comforters and fresh flowers. Neighbors and local businesses are generous supporters of Upward Bound House. FUMC has taken a leadership role in setting up the new Food Pantry program so families can save their earnings toward permanent housing. Over the years, small businesses have contributed to our annual fund-raising events through financial contributions and silent auction items. Neighbors donate household items and children’s toys and clothing. First Federal Bank sets up a checking account as each family gets back on their feet.

Pray big, my friends. There is much to do on God’s Good Earth. The buildings across the street from our church, where a parking lot once lay, remind us daily of what we can accomplish through the Grace of God.

Photos: (top) t-shirt that was made for the opening in 1997; Cindy McQuade and David Mayhan serve cake at June 3 coffee hour celebration; Russ Whittenburg and Dick Davis, both UBH Board members.