EHD 2025: Celebrating Personal Connections and Design Growth

How a Holiday Makeover at a Family Shelter Spreads Joy and Support

Update Bringing Holiday Cheer to Those in Need As the holiday season approaches, a community project has captured hearts by transforming a local family shelter into a festive haven. This initiative, spearheaded by a dedicated designer and a group of enthusiastic children, aims to uplift the spirits of families navigating the challenges of homelessness during a time traditionally associated with joy and warmth. Transforming Spaces with Thoughtful Design Inspired by the emotional impact of their efforts, the team set out to decorate the Family Promise Shelter, a facility that provides temporary housing for up to 70 families. Each year, this creative endeavor not only beautifies the shelter but also engages children in meaningful service, fostering a sense of connection and empathy among the young participants. The team's efforts focused on common areas like the lobby, dining room, and bonus room, which were recently renovated but still lacked a personal touch. By carefully selecting decor that adhered to the shelter’s rules against wall hangings, the group used innovative solutions, such as window decorations and festive table centerpieces, to create a warm environment without damaging the newly painted surfaces. As noted in another inspiring project at a different homeless shelter, thoughtful design choices present a striking departure from the typical bare-bones shelters, instilling a sense of dignity and respect among the residents. The Impact of Community Involvement What truly sets this project apart is the involvement of children from the local community. Together with their parents, they take on tasks such as making paper chains and window paintings, transforming the shelters into colorful spaces. Such collaborations resonate deeply, emphasizing the importance of empathy in cultivating future generations that care for vulnerable populations. The positive feedback from shelter employees and families alike demonstrates the profound impact of this initiative. Social workers at the shelter expressed their gratitude, noting how a cheerful environment can uplift the spirits of both families and workers alike, reminiscent of Portland's Family Village shelter’s success at creating an uplifting space with inspiring design. How You Can Help This Holiday Season With the holiday spirit in mind, there are various ways to contribute to the ongoing needs of families in shelters like Family Promise. From donating gift cards for children to providing unwrapped gifts, community members are encouraged to lend a hand. Your contributions help elevate the experience of these families during an otherwise challenging time, aligning with the collective goal of supporting those facing hardships. This initiative exemplifies the transformative power of thoughtful community engagement. By cherishing the moments of joy and connection, we can foster a supportive atmosphere that not only decorates spaces but also enriches lives. As we enjoy our holiday festivities, let’s take a moment to share that joy with those who need it the most.