A New Leaf

On National Disability Independence Day, we come together to celebrate the strength, resilience, and boundless potential of the disability community. At A New Leaf, we believe in the power of every voice and the importance of creating an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We recognize that the journey to independence is unique for each individual. It's a journey that can be filled with obstacles, and we understand that those with disabilities often face even greater challenges, including higher risks of homelessness, difficulties accessing healthcare, and financial burdens. Our commitment is to stand beside those with disabilities, offering unwavering support as they navigate these challenges. Through our comprehensive services and resources, we empower individuals with disabilities to live life on their own terms. We are proud to promote accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Yesterday, A New Leaf had two amazing groups visit East Valley Men's Center (EVMC). Filled with community spirit and generosity, A New Leaf partnered with Salad and Go and Mercy Care to deliver 800 salads to various shelter programs across the East Valley! These meals allow the families and individuals at our shelters to enjoy nutritious meals, and not have to worry about what their next meal. It is common to take the food we eat every day for granted, but for those we serve, these donated meals remove a ton of stress that comes with experiencing life's toughest challenges. The volunteers from Mercy Care had the opportunity to tour the East Valley Men’s Center, giving them a firsthand look at the impact of their efforts and the community they are supporting. This collaboration between Salad and Go, and Mercy Care shows just what the power of community can do when we come together to support one another. Thank you to everyone involved for your commitment to making a difference and for ensuring those in our shelters receive the support they deserve.

A New Leaf is incredibly grateful to Moni, a dedicated and compassionate volunteer. Wanting to give to her neighbors in need, Moni went out and purchased a variety of food items to help ensure that families and individuals in A New Leaf's shelter programs don't have to worry about their next meal. Moni's commitment to serving others is truly inspiring. Thank you for your kindness and for making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. Our donation center accepts new food items year round. Every contribution goes directly towards supporting the clients in A New Leaf's programs, providing meals for their entire family. If you would like to follow in Moni’s footsteps, you can bring any new items to our donation center, and give back to your community. Together, we can ensure that every family and individual receives the support they need to get back on their feet.

Suzy had been living in an abusive relationship with her husband for six years with their two young children who were subjected to witnessing many abusive incidents. She had tried leaving before, but couldn’t afford to live by herself with two children and had to return to her abuser for help. “I never wanted to be there or for my kids to see what they did. But in my mind, I had no choice. Either we stayed with him, or we were going to be homeless. I don’t have any family to help me, so I didn’t think I had a choice.” One night Suzy’s husband strangled her until she couldn’t breathe, and he nearly ended her life. While she had experienced violence before, she had never feared that she would die. She knew she had to leave before he had another chance to hurt her. “I called A New Leaf’s domestic violence hotline for help. Hearing someone on the other end of the phone tell me I was safe and that they could help me made me start sobbing. I had felt alone for so long, and suddenly I wasn’t.” That night a bed was available for Suzy at A New Leaf’s Faith House Domestic Violence Shelter. She wouldn't have to return home or see her abuser ever again. “The relief of knowing that he couldn't hurt me anymore, that I didn't need to protect my children from him - I felt I could breathe for the first time in years. I cannot explain how much that meant to me.” However, Suzy needed a lot of help to get back on her feet. Like many survivors of severe abuse, she was not able to take anything with her when she left. She had to get new birth certificates, her license, immunization records for her children, and more. “All of the scary things I had thought about when I wanted to leave, well they weren’t that scary with someone there to help me with them. I think I would have lost my life if I hadn’t found A New Leaf. The help I got here gave me courage I never thought I had. I finally have a future to look forward to, and so do my kids.”

A New Leaf is thrilled to have Capital One’s continued support for Economic Development services through the Mesa Community Action Network (MesaCAN)! Their funding will provide vital technical assistance, training, and resources to underserved small business owners in our community. Together, we are fostering economic mobility and supporting the growth of small businesses. Thank you, Capital One for your commitment to creating opportunities and strengthening our community and for investing in A New Leaf’s mission of “Helping families, changing lives!”

We are thrilled to celebrate Adam Kidd, a Valley veteran who just completed a 3,600-mile bike race, taking second place and raising thousands of dollars for kids at A New Leaf's West Valley Housing Assistance Center in Surprise. His incredible journey from the West Coast to the East Coast in the Great American Wheel Race is a testament to his dedication and kindness. Adam's efforts will provide brand new bicycles to children experiencing homelessness, bringing joy and mobility to dozens of kids in our shelter. His support will make a significant impact, offering these children a sense of normalcy and fun during challenging times. A New Leaf is deeply thankful for Adam's generosity and the positive difference he is making in the lives of our youngest residents. Together, with the support of amazing individuals like Adam, we can continue to provide hope and resources to families in need. Join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to Adam Kidd for his inspiring effort and the joy he is bringing to the children at our shelter. https://lnkd.in/gjAuyDZB

ALERT: The Valley hit a scorching 118 degrees on July 5, putting lives at risk. With temperatures continuously breaking records, the impact on those experiencing homelessness is devastating. From individuals living on the streets to families in vehicles, the extreme heat affects everyone struggling to find stable housing. Even those barely managing to pay their utility bills and rent are at risk. As of early July, Maricopa County has confirmed 14 heat-related deaths with 234 more under investigation. A New Leaf is deeply concerned about the rising number of heat-related illnesses and deaths. We are committed to providing relief and support through our shelters and services in Phoenix, Mesa, and locations across the Valley. As the Valley continues to face record-breaking heat, we must come together as a community to ensure the safety and well-being of our most vulnerable neighbors. https://lnkd.in/gSx3gHPQ

This past Saturday, our friends at The Matthew 25 Project brought warmth and nourishment to the East Valley Men's Center (EVMC) with their generous donation of meals. A New Leaf is incredibly grateful for Matthew 25's support, which began in 2016 and has continued to bring joy to our community each month. Every visit from The Matthew 25 Project means pre-made favorites like pizza and lasagna, accompanied by refreshing sodas, are served to the men at EVMC. These meals provide not only a sense of normalcy and community, which are invaluable to our residents. The Matthew 25 Project’s dedication to helping those in need is truly inspiring. Their commitment to providing monthly meals helps ensure that the men at EVMC have a delicious and hearty meal to look forward to, which makes a significant difference in their lives. For those who want to learn more about The Matthew 25 Project and perhaps support their incredible work, please visit their website at https://lnkd.in/eWftJTz2. They do remarkable things for the community, and your support can help them continue their mission.

ALERT: Evictions have surged by OVER 21% in Maricopa County, topping 83,000 filings in 2023. With eviction numbers surging, families like Heavyn Glascow's are being forced out of their homes, and individuals like Kristopher Aranda are left starting from scratch after losing loved ones and their homes. Evictions in Arizona are reaching record levels, causing immense pain, expense, and disruption to families and communities. This crisis affects parents and children the most, pushing them to the brink of homelessness with just one unexpected expense. It's far more effective to prevent evictions than to deal with the aftermath of homelessness. More resources are urgently needed to support families and keep them in their homes. A New Leaf is committed to preventing evictions and providing affordable housing solutions. We must invest more in these efforts to ensure stability and security for families across the Valley. Together, we can make a difference and keep our communities intact. https://lnkd.in/dHXUsc75

WOW! Meet Dr. Brenda Combs, who overcame 10 years of homelessness and addiction to earn her PhD, and who is now making a difference in our community! A New Leaf is proud to work alongside organizations like the Finding My Shoes Foundation in the fight to end homelessness. We believe that with everyone's engagement and support, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those in need. Join us in this important work to provide shelter, resources, and hope to our most vulnerable neighbors. Together, we can create a community where everyone has a place to call home. https://lnkd.in/gi6424yv