Hanukkah began last week, Christmas and Kwanzaa celebrations begin next week. Regardless of which holiday you celebrate—or if you even celebrate a holiday during this last month of the calendar year—I hope that you will take time to reflect on all that has transpired during 2020 and that you are able to find things to celebrate.
I could not have anticipated a year of more change or uncertainty. We have all become used to the natural disasters that seem to be part of every year—the fires and the snowstorms—but to have to face and adjust to a worldwide pandemic was not on my radar. As we entered the month of March and began to realize the seriousness of the pandemic that was affecting our world and how the recommended lockdown was affecting our community, the WCA began to put out the message that home is not safe for everyone.
For those who have had a safe home—a sanctuary—during these troubling times, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, a vaccine. For those brave enough to come to the WCA seeking safety, assistance, and perhaps a sanctuary of their own, they will find there can also be a light at the end of the tunnel from the fear, trauma, and abuse they have been experiencing in their world.
Keeping our doors open, being here for those who need us is a reality thanks to the support of our community, which makes our work possible. Your help in getting our message out, in sharing our hotline phone number, in distributing our social media posts, with providing financial and in-kind donations—all of this is helping us make a difference and provide that light. Your continued support, in so many ways, is one of the things I both cherish and celebrate during this season.
During these special holiday times—I wish you the comfort and joy that comes from reflecting on everything you have to be grateful for—even if your gatherings are not as large and do not include all your family members due to health concerns.
With Gratitude,
