A New Leaf

A New Leaf had an unforgettable Trunk-or-Treat event on October 29th, bringing Halloween magic to residents at Homeward Bound and families in our Strong Foundations programs! This festive day was filled with fun, laughter, and community support, thanks to the incredible organizations and individuals who helped us make this event extra special. Special shoutout to The Comfy for generously donating 115 cozy Comfys for residents to take home, providing warmth and comfort as the season changes. We are so grateful to Free Arts for bringing seven volunteers who helped the kids decorate their candy bags, ensuring they were ready to collect treats in style! A huge thank you to Swift Youth Foundation , whose 30 enthusiastic volunteers ran game booths, craft stations, and even a popcorn station. Their dedication truly brought the festivities to life! We also had a special guest appearance from Gabriel's Angels therapy dog, Carmel, and his owner Kerry, both dressed up and mingling with the kids. And thank you to Tolga Tuncay for coordinating the fantastic photo booth, allowing families to capture memories and enjoy their time together, as well as coordinating the Comfy donations. Our event wouldn’t have been complete without the creative trunks brought by RISING YOUTH THEATRE, Junior Phoenix League, Evernorth, Avnet, City of Surprise , Free Arts, Swift Youth Foundation, and individual volunteers. Every station added an exciting, unique touch that brought so much joy to our residents and families. From everyone at A New Leaf, thank you for your compassion, dedication, and enthusiasm. Events like these truly show the power of community to bring joy, warmth, and support to families across the Valley.

This November, we honor Native American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the rich histories, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Native American peoples across the United States. It's a month to celebrate the traditions, languages, and stories of Native communities and acknowledge their profound impact on our national fabric. Native American Heritage Month offers us all an opportunity to engage more deeply with Native cultures. We encourage everyone to participate in events, learn from Native art and literature, and educate themselves about the political and social issues that affect Native communities. It's also a crucial time to support Native-led organizations and initiatives that strive for equity and justice. Let’s use this month to reflect on our shared history and ensure that the rights and cultures of Native peoples are supported and respected. Join us in honoring the vibrant traditions and enduring contributions of Native Americans, not only this month but year-round.

Jutoria and her family were living out of their car, and were left without a path towards stability. Read this month's newsletter to see how you helped Jutoria's family get back on their feet, and how you continue to help those in need every day.

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a beautiful and meaningful celebration observed annually on November 1st and 2nd. This tradition, rooted in Mexican culture and honoring the deceased, blends indigenous customs with Spanish influences. It serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between the living and those who have passed, celebrating life while honoring the memories of our loved ones. During this time, families create ofrendas (altars) adorned with photographs, favorite foods, and cherished items of the departed, inviting their spirits to return for a joyful reunion. Colorful marigolds, sugar skulls, and papel picado add vibrancy to the festivities, symbolizing both the joy and the sorrow that accompany remembrance. Día de los Muertos is not just a day to mourn; it is a celebration of life, love, and community. It encourages us to reflect on our heritage and the legacies of those who came before us, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. Through parades, community gatherings, and artistic expressions, we share stories and traditions that enrich our cultural landscape. This celebration also promotes understanding and respect across different cultures, inviting everyone to partake in the festivities and learn about its significance. As we honor the past and celebrate the present, let us embrace the lessons of Día de los Muertos: that love transcends time, and that remembrance can bring healing and joy. Día de los Muertos calls us to come together to honor our ancestors, appreciate our cultural heritage, and strengthen the bonds that unite our community. Let’s cherish the memories while celebrating the vibrant lives that continue to inspire us.

A New Leaf is incredibly grateful to Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco , and Desert Financial Credit Union for awarding a $30,000 grant dedicated to supporting justice-involved individuals in their journey toward employment and stability. This generous grant is a crucial resource that will help us provide essential services, job training, and employment support for individuals aiming to rebuild their lives. Securing and maintaining employment is one of the most significant steps toward long-term stability, especially for those working to overcome the barriers associated with a justice-involved background. Thanks to Desert Financial’s support, A New Leaf will be able to continue providing tailored assistance, helping these individuals gain meaningful work experience, develop professional skills, and ultimately secure a path toward self-sufficiency. Thank you, FHLBank San Francisco and Desert Financial, not only for your generous grant but also for highlighting A New Leaf’s mission through your story. Please, click the link below to learn more about this amazing grant opportunity. https://lnkd.in/gnPmGaFG

A New Leaf is honored to have been selected by Allstate employees from Allstate Identity Protection, as a 2024 Employee Community Partnership grant recipient! We never tire of expressing gratitude for the generosity of community partners, like The Allstate Foundation who brings the relationships, reputation, and resources of Allstate to support lasting solutions that enhance people’s wellbeing and prosperity in communities across the country. With The Allstate Foundation’s support, A New Leaf provides life-changing resources and opportunities for families and individuals struggling with poverty and instability. Community members served by A New Leaf are the most vulnerable to the effects of inflation, public health crises, or climate change, including those facing homelessness, domestic violence, poverty, and chronic mental and physical health challenges. Thank you, The Allstate Foundation, for partnering in A New Leaf’s mission of “Helping Families, Changing Lives!”

Thank you so much to Pioneer Title Agency for their remarkable contribution during their October donation drive. Their efforts have stocked our shelters with essential items including pots, pans, kitchen utensils, linens, baby supplies, and more, ensuring comfort and practical assistance to the families we serve. This incredible initiative also brought in vital hygiene supplies, cleaning materials, gift cards, and cash donations. Each contribution directly enhances the living conditions within our shelters, making a significant difference in the lives of the families we serve. Their commitment to community support exemplifies true compassion and generosity. Their continued partnership means so much to thousands of families across the Valley. Thank you, Pioneer Title Agency-Kierland, for your dedication and generosity. Your actions inspire and empower, helping A New Leaf ensure that every family and individual can look forward to a brighter, more stable future.

I am excited to see the news that A New Leaf will be receiving a $30,000 AHEAD grant from Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco. This funding will help 60 formerly incarcerated individuals in Maricopa County gain economic mobility and self-sufficiency. Desert Financial Credit Union is honored to partner with A New Leaf in improving lives and reducing barriers. Michael Hughes https://lnkd.in/gsdzS2Q7

Carissa was in her early 20’s when she first experienced domestic violence, and it left a permanent mark on her well-being as she grew older. Her grandparents quickly intervened since Carissa had a young daughter, and Carissa’s boyfriend ended up in prison for his actions. “I am so thankful my grandparents stepped up to help me through that. I wish so much that I had done more afterwards to help myself, but at the time I just wanted to move on with my life and with my daughter. I thought it was over.” At first, Carissa thrived. She had her own apartment, a car, and a stable job. But when her ex-boyfriend left prison and located her, things changed. Still vulnerable from her traumatic experience and fearful of him, Carissa let him back into her life. He quickly spiraled out of control on drugs, spending her savings without her permission and then leaving. Carissa found herself evicted from her apartment with nowhere to go. She felt lower than ever before and knew something had to change. “I decided that everything in my life needed to change, and I committed to making that happen. I had made mistakes based on fear, but I wasn't going to do that again.” Carissa called the city of Mesa for housing assistance and was booked for an intake at A New Leaf’s Family Homeless Shelter. She and her daughter spent the next 3 months in the shelter as Carissa worked on finding a job and long term housing. Importantly, Carissa got counseling and support she needed to overcome the trauma of her past relationship. After enrolling in a few additional community programs to help her maintain stability, Carissa felt ready to move into independent housing. A New Leaf offered her an affordable housing unit, which would index her rent to her income, guaranteeing long term stability. “This place got me back on my feet. I wanted to be a better mother, and a better person, and A New Leaf gave me the support I needed to do that. I’m so thankful to have been given a second chance.”

We're excited to share more about the transformative expansion of A New Leaf's East Valley Men's Center, recently spotlighted by Fabulous Arizona. This significant development will enhance our ability to provide comprehensive support and services to men facing homelessness in our community. By increasing both capacity and resources, we are equipping our facility to offer a greater number of men the crucial support they need for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The expansion includes additional housing units and upgraded facilities, ensuring that every individual has access to a safe environment and the necessary tools to work towards stability and independence. Our aim is not only to provide a temporary shelter but to foster a supportive community where men can find new beginnings and hope for the future. Thank you to Fabulous Arizona for highlighting this crucial project and helping spread the word about the positive impact these changes will bring. Read the full story here to learn more about how this expansion will further empower individuals and benefit the community at large. https://lnkd.in/gxxBnDhn