Thanksgiving is the holiday that celebrates the harvest and other blessings of the past year. At Housing and Development Services, Inc, Thanksgiving is a time to remember what we are thankful for and help others.. This year HDS employees were fortunate to volunteer at The Broward Partnership for Homeless. Inc. The BPHI is an organization that is committed to reducing homelessness by promoting independence through advocacy, housing and comprehensive services. 2019 marks their 20th year of service delivery to their community and to date 25,900 men, women, and children have embraced the Partnership’s commitment to them.
“The Broward Partnership for the Homeless is an organization that we have supported for many years. I have such admiration for the staff, especially Donna Lee, and their leadership who tirelessly work to provide dignity and help to those who are without a home at the moment” – Cristina Gilson, CEO
As in previous years, HDS joined forces with BPHI to help them prepare for their upcoming holiday festivities. This year was extra special as we volunteered at both the Fort Lauderdale and Pompano locations and all HDS Contenders were able to participate.
The HDS Contenders got to work at each location wearing Thanksgiving themed ‘GIVE THANKS’ aprons that specially created in house by our Marketing team for this event.
The HDS Contenders were divided into groups and assisted in the kitchen with the preparation of the dinner service, set up the cookie and cupcake decoration station for the children and adults, re-stocked pantries, and got the holiday spirit going by hanging up the holiday decorations around the facility. After dinner, each patron was provided with a gift of an HDS Foundation drawstring bag that included a water bottle and a heartfelt note from the HDS Contenders.
Here are what some of the HDS Contenders had to say about their experience. Stay tuned to our social media channels as we continue to post pictures and quotes from our helping hands.
“I am very grateful to have the wonderful opportunity to volunteer at The Broward Partnership. It was a wonderful experience giving to those in need and definitely a rewarding feeling” – Debora Stevenson, Director of Administration & Finance
“Yesterday I was provided with the privilege of providing meals, time and service to those that are in need. It was far beyond one of the most a humbling and gratifying experiences to have.” – Erin Batista, Office Administration Manager
“I was impacted by how much gratitude both the staff of BPHI and many of their clients showed for HDS’ participation. There so many people truly in need and most are genuinely grateful for any help they receive.” – Don Wright, Senior Project Manager
Housing is the industry we serve and one we value with highest regard. This was a wonderful opportunity to give back and encourage our neighbors in their journey to independent living. We look forward to donating more time and services in the future. If you would like to help the Broward Partnership, you can donate on their web page at www.bphi.org or you can donate items from their wish list. These wish list items, such as unexpired canned and dry foods, personal hygiene products, and clothing, can be dropped off at 920 NW 7th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Call the Broward Partnership at 954.779.3990 or email [email protected] for more information on how you can assist this wonderful group.