A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry has revealed a sad and shocking fact: 321,566 children lost a parent to a drug overdose between 2011 and 2021. This shows just how much substance use disorders are hurting families across the United States. Key Findings The Need for Holistic Care These findings highlight the urgent need for a more complete approach to helping people with substance use problems. Programs need to support not just individuals but also their families “These heartbreaking statistics show the importance of programs that support recovery for the whole family. Holistic, compassionate care for parents and their children helps prevent overdoses and saves lives.”De’netta Benjamin Miller, Executive Director of Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS, … [Read more...] about The Hidden Impact of the Opioid Crisis: Children Left Behind
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The 20th Annual Victorian Tea wasn't just a fundraiser; it was a celebration of two decades of making a difference. Here's to many more years of tea, joy, and changing lives together! Record-Breaking Fundraising: For the first time, the Victorian Tea grossed more than $100,000. The generosity of our supporters surpassed all expectations. We are so grateful to each person who donated to help us surpass our goals. The funds raised will directly benefit the mothers, children and families of Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS. They will provide crucial support and resources to those in recovery. It's heartwarming to see our community come together to empower those who need it most. Recognition of Excellence: We were honored to present Pearl of Hope awards to Murrysville … [Read more...] about A Memorable Celebration:
Each year Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS recognize the contributions and commitment of individuals and organizations with our Pearl of Hope award. We’re proud to announce for 2024 we are recognizing an individual and an organization. Both recipients have been making a difference in lives of the families we serve for many years. Dr. Rober Breit, MD, or Dr. Bob as he is known at Sojourner House, has been holding a parenting group at Sojourner House for more than 15 years. A pediatrician by trade, Dr. Bob has been a long-time friend of Sojourner House, having served as a board member and a mentor. His rapport and connection with our mothers make a huge impact on their lives. He helps them build the skills they need to repair relationships with their children and build a brighter … [Read more...] about Sojourner House Names 2024 Pearl of Hope Awardees
We are delighted to announce that Tammy Thompson, the esteemed Founder and Executive Director of Catapult Greater Pittsburgh, has been named the honorary chair for the 20th Annual Victorian Tea hosted by Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS. Thompson, a former board member of Sojourner House MOMS, brings with her a wealth of experience as a Housing Counselor and a passionate advocate for financial literacy and family empowerment. Having personally navigated through the challenges of poverty and homelessness, Thompson brings a unique perspective to her advocacy work. "Her first-hand experiences with poverty and homelessness have given her a unique perspective. I am ecstatic and grateful to have her as our honorary chair," remarked De’netta Benjamin-Miller, Executive Director of … [Read more...] about Celebrating Community Leadership: Tammy Thompson Named Honorary Chair for the 20th Annual Victorian Tea
As a child Nishauna witnessed firsthand the impact of her mother’s substance use disorder. Her mother’s struggles brought them to Sojourner House in search of hope and stability. “Stability. Sojourner House means stability to me. It’s a safe space for change and a place for me to feel safe. Coming here at that age was crucial. My whole life would have been different without Sojourner House,” Nishauna said. For Nishauna, arriving at Sojourner House at such an impressionable age was the turning point for her that helped her break the generational cycles of substance use disorder and create a different life for herself. “I believe that I am still here because I am supposed to help others,” she said. Now as a social worker at age 36, she uses her experiences to help others on their … [Read more...] about Nishauna’s Story
Vanessa spent time with her son at both Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS putting in the work to overcome her substance use disorder and find the path she wanted for herself and her son. The programs gave her an amazing foundation and the confidence to go after what she wanted for her life. “I was at Sojourner House for 5-6 months and then MOMS for 5 years. Now, I own my own home,” she said. “If you stay with it, you really can do it.” Vanessa credits her time at Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS for everything she has today. “I met some amazing women here,” she said. “This place gave me a sense of peace that helped me prepare for whenever I got out of here.” “Life shows up,” Vanessa said about life after her time at Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS. … [Read more...] about Vanessa’s Story