“We talk a lot about the need to be “trauma-informed” in our work with clients, and giving gift cards during the holiday season instead of gifts is a small but concrete example of putting that thinking into practice. Choice and autonomy are two major components of being a trauma-informed provider. Giving parents a gift card tells them that we want them to make decisions for their families, and gives them options – something that is in short supply when you’re navigating homelessness. It’s not just a gift of things, it’s a gift of being able to choose for yourself. That has value beyond the card itself. – Mary Shannon Thomas, Senior Director of Programs, Heading Home

Your donation will go directly into the hands of parents and adults this holiday season, affording them the opportunity to shop, wrap, and give to their friends and family.