DIRECTOR'S PAGE

Since 1998, it has been my vision to bring all of the qualities of life to communities like the one I grew up in.  My only desire is for children, families and seniors in the inner cities to not be defined by their economic setbacks, but that despite those conditions kids could still look out their windows and see a lot of people gathering in their neighborhood, setting up food tables, games, various inflatables, and yes, even horseback riding, during the annual outdoor community gospel festivals during the summer - then to arrive at a designated location and their eyes would widen because of the amazing decorations and gifts stacked and not to mention the smell of homemade meals that have been prepared - just for them - kids of incarcerated parents and those who - for a short time - would be housed in a shelter - this during the holiday season.  Shama Ministries is a support organization for other homeless shelters, providing toiletries and clothing for individuals who have been released from incarceration and whenever possible, we would hire those individuals to assist with various projects.   It has only been my desire to make sure that each child and even those who have made decisions that cost them some time away from their families, would find a place that would not judge where they have been but was only interested in assisting with the direction of where life was taking them.  That is what the House of Refuge offered.  Why, because I was once that kid, whose parent was incarcerated and people came to offer the Angel Tree Program to my family when my father was incarcerated, and I was the parent of someone incarcerated.  Your help is needed to continue our mission.