Tabitha* absolutely loved painting. She would always ask if we were painting that day in Children's Services at People Serving People, and if we weren't, she would say, "“"ugh, I wish we could paint," in a dreamy, detached voice. When we did paint she would stand next to the table and hold her paint brush like a delicate instrument.

Tabitha shared a small room with her sister and parents at People Serving People for a few weeks - with no TV, no radio and no walls to separate her from her family members. As a 'tween,' this left her with few options when she wanted to "get away from it all" and have a moment to herself.

Painting became Tabitha's escape while she was here at People Serving People. With staff, volunteers and other kids her age available each day after school and on weekends, Tabitha had the opportunity to find out what she loved and what her hidden talents were. She quickly honed in on painting and established herself as the resident 'artiste.'

Though Tabitha has moved to a new home with her family, she will surely continue creating new artwork. With a newfound confidence in her talents as a painter, she can enroll in art classes at her school, and participate in community after school art programs.

The simple availability of a daily 'escape' is so important to children at People Serving People. Kids have the chance to share their stories about the school day with each other, and other staff and volunteers. Their interests and dreams receive critical validation, made possible by the Children's Services programming at our shelter. Supporting our programming helps us to ensure that the 200+ children here every day have an opportunity to be themselves - despite their family's homelessness. Please support this great cause!

*Name changed for confidentiality purposes.