News
November 13, 2017RentPath Coordinates Drive for Family Homeless Shelter in Rensselaer
As the festivities of the holidays approach, people start to consider what they are thankful for, and while doing this, some decide to donate their time, talent or treasurers to others. RentPath, a digital marketing solutions company that offers mobile and online solutions to search for apartments and houses for rent, is working with a number of locally-owned properties to collect items to help homeless families. “National Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week is Nov. 11-19 so to help families get back on their feet after experiencing homelessness, we are collecting donations of household items alongside 12 properties we work with. We hope renters will give generously so those less fortunate can have a fresh start,” explains Kara Wilhelm Rafferty, Senior Sales Executive for RentPath and event organizer.
“Kara wanted to do something impactful during this week of homeless and hunger awareness. When I explained that families come to our shelter with very little and most of what they own is in black trash bags, she immediately asked for a wish list of items that can be collected at each apartment property,” explained Tracy Pitcher, St Paul’s Center executive director. “With more than 25% of the population living paycheck to paycheck, one significant event – a fire, a code violation, relationship break-up, job loss, expensive car repair – can force a family into homelessness. Last year, the shelter was 100% occupied and this year, we are on track to serve the same number of families.”
Participating properties include Sunrise Management & Consulting properties: Van Allen Apartments, Adams Park Apartments and Mill Hollow Apartments. Morgan Communities’ participating properties: Highland Club and Towers of the Hudson. Rosetti Properties include: Hawthorn Gardens, Stonegate, Partridge Hill, Rosewood Gardens, Shaker Run, The Woodlands and Williamsburg Court.
St Paul’s Center opened its doors in 2006 and has since served over 2,200 mothers and children who did not have a place to call home. The highly successful 12 month after-shelter case management program, Bridges, is offered to those leaving shelter to ensure families do not return to homelessness. This program has been successful for over 95% of participating families. To view the wish list, visit www.stpaulscenter.com.
