ROCKFORD — Shelter Care Ministries was honored Thursday night with the Register Star Excelsior Award for its decadeslong commitment to helping homeless families and those suffering from mental illness.
From the nonprofit’s supportive housing program, which placed 201 people in apartments last year, to the Jubilee Center, a day program that provides a welcoming place for area homeless and those at risk, to MAYA’S House, which helps parents keep their children safe and cared for during times of turmoil, Shelter Care Ministries has been at the forefront of the community’s effort to assist those in need as they struggle with hardships largely associated with poverty, abuse, addiction and mental illness.
“Shelter Care is dedicated to meeting families where they are; there are no barriers to receiving services,” said board member Carol Jambor-Smith. “The overarching philosophy is that the transition from homelessness to independent living can be arduous, with many hurdles to be overcome. The staff is empowered to make decisions and provide assistance that is unique to a particular family.”
The organization, known throughout the community for the dignity with which it helps the downtrodden and afflicted, started nearly 40 years ago when The Rev. James Cardone, rector of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, called upon the parishioners of his downtown congregation to heed Scripture’s direction to help “the least of these” and then directed their attention to the hungry and homeless on the sidewalks outside.