by Ellen Glasser
President, Beaches Homeless Coalition Inc.

 

Working with many volunteers and several churches over the last two years,  the Beaches Homeless Coalition (BHC) recently became “official” as a 501c(3) non-profit organization.  It is our unwavering mission at the BHC to serve the homeless people of the beaches by meeting them "where they are" in life and providing services to them through a robust network of community partners who are dedicated to treating them with dignity and compassion.  

Beaches Homeless Coalition Logo

Formed as a corporation, the BHC is a secular organization that assists host organizations and volunteers to provide food, meals, temporary shelter, clothing, hygiene services, transportation, and other assistance to homeless people at the…

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By Gwinn Volen

50% of women leaving the military have experienced some kind of sexual trauma while in service. Yes, it's a staggering statistic. It's difficult to fathom the profound sense of despair one might feel after such an experience, compounded by the challenge of rebuilding a life outside the military, and trying to transition skills into civilian settings. Often, women do not even explore the benefits and retraining programs offered by the VA. Instead, they fall into depression and poverty.

 "It became overwhelming to see the increase of women veterans coming into my office needing help that was not available in the community," said Dee Quaranta, President and Founder of the organization. "After asking some of my community contacts if they…

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by Jenn Heller

Moving, especially when downsizing, is a great opportunity to inventory the things that you have and begin the process of donating items that you no longer need, use or want. This can go beyond the scope of just clothing. Furniture items, small appliances and other household goods are highly accepted by donation centers who give back to your local community to support those in need. Donating items, especially while in the midst of packing for a move, can be a hassle, but it doesn't have to be. There are several local organizations in Jacksonville and the Beaches area that will come and pick up your donations, greatly alleviating the pressure of loading up the car and doing it yourself. Here's a few of our local favorites that we have…

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by Cindy Moody

I had the pleasure of meeting Jill Thompson, the founder of Inheritance of Hope, through her son, Cael, one of our Griffin Moody Scholarship Fund recipients this year.  It never ceases to amaze me the incredible kids we meet through our application and interview process, all established to honor our Grif's legacy. This year, we also met Jill and how she honored her best friend, who passed and left behind a sweet family, by establishing this organization to support families that are facing the loss of a parent. Jill and I met for coffee shortly after we met and I asked her to share what she does.  There are heroes in our community, she is one of them, and I think our blog is a wonderful way to share.  Even if it helps only one family, it…

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by Jenn Heller


2020 launched with great anticipation, with many thinking, “this is my year.”  Then COVID-19 hit and changed lives for many, leaving 6.8% of Americans without jobs and creating great needs across the US.   The pandemic has potentially left more than 50 million people hungry, including 17 million children, and there has been a rise in the homeless community throughout the country. This need exists right here in our corner of the world, the greater Jacksonville area.

We know many are looking to give back during the holidays and giving can mean more than just gifts.  

Interested in doing your part to help change lives this holiday?  Set aside some time with your friends, family, small group or co-workers to make a difference in…

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