Actions speak louder

Jennifer Barrera, program director of Lucy’s Hearth, was named a winner of the Harlequin “More than Words” award. The award recognizes three heroines from across the nation who have dedicated themselves towards improving life within their community. Barrera has been with safe haven for mothers and children for the past nine years and during her tenure, the length of stay for residents has decreased from an average of two years, to three-six months. The number of mothers who exit the program and move into permanent housing has also increased to 80 percent. Prior to Lucy’s Hearth, Barrera was a secretary for the Middletown Substance Abuse Prevention Task Force.

Over the past nine years, is there a case that stands out to you?

One of the first families I met here at Lucy’s Hearth turns out to also be the most memorable. A mother and three boys moved in, two of the boys were enrolled in school and we quickly set up the school bus transportation and got them new backpacks so they would be ready to go. The following morning, the oldest boy, age 7, hesitated to get on the school bus and began crying. After the bus left, we sat with the child to identify why he didn’t want to get on the bus and he said, “Will my new bed be here when I get home?” We learned from his mom that he had never had permanent housing.

Could you tell me more about the holistic wraparound services Lucy’s Hearth offers?

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Our programs and services are designed to meet the needs of all of the mothers and children in the shelter. At entry, the family is assessed and all basic human needs: clothing, food and medical care are immediately met. Within the first 30 days, our case manager completes an in-depth assessment and a treatment plan is developed.

What are some of your plans for the new shelter?

The highlights include: larger family spaces, including private bathrooms and small kitchenettes, energy-efficient systems for heating and cooling, large, modern common spaces that will accommodate various group activities indoors and outdoors and an overall increase in capacity from 10 families to up to 16 families at a time. •

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