When we talk about the overdose crisis, the numbers can feel overwhelming. But behind every statistic is a name, a family, and, too often, child left grieving. A recent Allegheny County report reveals a devastating truth: between 2016 and 2023, 3,512 children and young adults in Allegheny County lost a parent to overdose. That’s more than 400 children each year.Half were under the age of 13.Fourteen percent were under five—our community’s youngest and most vulnerable. These numbers don’t just represent loss. They represent futures that will forever be shaped by trauma. The Overdose Ripple Effect The Allegheny County data show that many parents who died of overdose had previously interacted with behavioral health, child welfare, or criminal justice systems. In the year before their … [Read more...] about Every Number Represents a Story: Helping Families Heal Together from the Trauma of Overdose
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Beyond the Checkbook: Meaningful Ways to Support Sojourner House Every gift to Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS helps mothers and children find safety, stability, and the chance to build new beginnings. While many supporters give through one-time or recurring donations, there are other powerful ways to make a lasting impact on the families we serve. Give Through Your Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) A donor-advised fund allows you to recommend charitable gifts to organizations you care about while receiving immediate tax benefits. You can direct a gift to Sojourner House today or schedule recurring contributions through your DAF sponsor. If your DAF is with Fidelity Charitable, Schwab Charitable, or BNY Mellon, you can even make a gift directly through our website’s DAF widget for … [Read more...] about Beyond the Checkbook: Creative Ways to Give and Build a Lasting Legacy
By De’netta Benjamin-Miller, LCSW – Executive Director, Sojourner House Now more than ever at Sojourner House, we see the realities of addiction and healing every day—not on the evening news or in statistics, but in the eyes of a mother fighting to stay sober so she can tuck her child into bed at night. For more than three decades, our organization has provided residential treatment and housing to mothers in recovery and their children. Our mission is rooted in compassion and community. Right now, it has never been more urgent. Now more than ever, we are facing intersecting crises. Substance use rates continue to rise. Housing insecurity is climbing. Mental health needs are going unmet. And too often, those most impacted are mothers—including women of color, women who have … [Read more...] about Now More Than Ever, Mothers in Recovery Need Our Support
Support Sojourner House during Give Big Pittsburgh on Tuesday, December 3 Now, more than ever, we invite you to consider the impact of your support on families who rely on Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS in Pittsburgh. With your help, these families can find safe space for recovery and also the tools to build brighter futures together. Today, we’re sharing the story of one resilient mother, who—thanks to supporters like you—found her strength, healing, and self-worth through Sojourner House. Ashley, pictured on the far right during a recent workshop at Sojourner House MOMS, recalls the moment she learned about Sojourner House with fondness. “My CYS worker believed in me and said, ‘I have this place for you called Sojourner House in Pittsburgh.’ It was as if a … [Read more...] about Now More Than Ever: A Story of Hope and Resilience
The 20th Annual Victorian Tea wasn't just a fundraiser; it was a celebration of two decades of making a difference. Here's to many more years of tea, joy, and changing lives together! Record-Breaking Fundraising: For the first time, the Victorian Tea grossed more than $100,000. The generosity of our supporters surpassed all expectations. We are so grateful to each person who donated to help us surpass our goals. The funds raised will directly benefit the mothers, children and families of Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS. They will provide crucial support and resources to those in recovery. It's heartwarming to see our community come together to empower those who need it most. Recognition of Excellence: We were honored to present Pearl of Hope awards to Murrysville … [Read more...] about A Memorable Celebration:
Give Big Pittsburgh launches Tuesday, November 28, 2023 Where might your dollars go? Your Impact Spread the word! After making your donation, help spread the word about Give Big Pittsburgh and Sojourner House by sharing your reason for giving. Download and post the "I Gave" image to keep the momentum going and help others join the movement to Give Big Pittsburgh this Giving Tuesday! … [Read more...] about Mark your Calendar for to Give Big this Giving Tuesday