Lazarus House open house is today

Lazarus House open house is today

Sixteen years ago this summer Lazarus House was founded when the truth of homelessness within our cities was revealed. Through the leadership of founding Director Darlene Marcusson we learned that the people we saw sleeping on park benches were not from far away places, but rather were our neighbors who returned to their own community the months shelters in other cities closed.

Since then, we have grown to a comprehensive program which not only shelters the homeless, but also administers services and resources directed at preventing homelessness. In partnership with over 50 medical, educational, counseling, domestic violence, mental health and substance abuse agencies Lazarus House offers a “hand up rather than a hand out” to those struggling the most. We are a referral source for those seeking information on where to turn. We are a soup kitchen for those living on their own, but lacking funds for food after rents, utilities and other bills are paid.

What is most profound about Lazarus House is you. You have blessed this ministry by every hour volunteered, meal cooked, bottle of soap donated, and, of course, dollar given. You have blessed our communities with a safe and caring home for those with none. Newborn babies, 23 year old sons, 83 year old women and so many more have all called Lazarus House home.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at 214 Walnut St. in St. Charles, you are invited to see all the good you have done at our annual open house. At 11:30, a rededication ceremony honors the 10-year anniversary of our Center for Transitional Living.

Thank you, central and rural Kane County for your care and compassion which have become this “Miracle on Walnut Street” known as Lazarus House.

Liz Eakins

Executive director

Lazarus House

St. Charles