Students from James Madison University return to Sheffield Place for spring break

After a one-year absence due to COVID-19, James Madison University students were back at Sheffield Place for their Alternative Spring Break – Go Dukes!  The 10 students painted the interior of one of the Sheffield Place houses to prepare it for the next family, organized storage, helped a client move to one of the agency-owned houses, picked up litter in the neighborhood, and held a special session with the mothers in honor of Women’s History Month, among many other tasks. 

Here are excerpts from their reflection papers that describe their experiences:

 After spending the last few days at Sheffield Place, I believe my perspective on homelessness and poverty have been utterly reshaped.  The experience at Sheffield Place was eye-opening on the importance of one’s childhood and the effects of traumatic incidents on one’s life in the long-term.  One of my favorite highlights of this journey is seeing one of the mothers move into her new house after we cleaned it.

***

Through the voices of the women at Sheffield Place, I’ve learned of the forms that trauma can take and the effects if can have on a person and their life.  Trauma, poverty, and addiction can happen to individuals regardless of their education, family life, or economic status.  In spite of the adversity in their lives, they are at Sheffield Place and are taking steps toward a life of success and happiness, and I’m so glad to have had the opportunity to learn about this place and the stories of some of the women.

***

Through this experience, I was granted unforgettable memories.  A very happy memory was seeing a mother moving into her new house with her baby.  I remember her saying, “a year and a half ago, I would’ve never thought I would be here.  I was in the streets with heroine.”  I felt very grateful that I played a small part in her journey.

***

What really inspired me was seeing how this shelter actually works.  They have different programs, a lot of rules, and a lot of restrictions.  The longer women stay in the shelter, the more they get out of it.  We heard from clients that say staying 30 days or more is tough, but you’ll reap the benefits and you will grow!  I had no idea that it was even possible to have a place that can give a homeless person a permanent fix instead of a temporary one.   I’ll miss Sheffield Place!

***

Through my time at Sheffield Place I learned about the systemic issues that impact the homeless population, how trauma and scarcity can influence every decision you make, and how much domestic violence can take away from you.  However, I think the most important part of my learning was getting to know the incredible women who stay here.

***

I honestly didn’t know what to expect, but I will say the first interactions I had with staff members created excitement and comfort I’ve not experienced in other volunteer roles.  Everyone was so approachable and friendly.  This is when I know that Sheffield Place would make an impact on my perspective on poverty and homelessness. 

***

 I was unaware of all the services and resources that Sheffield Place provides for the women and children here.  My eyes have been opened to the barriers that women face regarding homelessness and the struggles they go through to get out of it.  Sheffield Place is an amazing organization that provides love and hope for the families.  I would not have wanted to spend my spring break any other way.

***

During my time at Sheffield Place, I was able to engage in meaningful service onsite while being exposed to the stories and experiences of the mothers at the facility.  While I will never fully andstand what these women have gone through or how they ended up at Sheffield Place, I have learned so much about the value of a place that sees these women through the lens of empowerment. 

***

I admire three things about Sheffield Place that make this place great.  First, they focus on serving mothers and have a great children’s program.  To me this is what makes the place so special.  Second, the focus is on the clients.  They make the clients feel safe and build trust between them and provide so many services to these women as well as a support system.  Third, I love how Sheffield Place is always open with love and family.  When someone walks in the front door they are welcomed with open arms and hearts ready to listen without judgment.

***

Sheffield Place has deeply changed my perspective on family homelessness.  I always knew it was a nuanced issue, but I now understand that there are so many issues that go into the reasons why a person is homeless.  I also now understand why it is so difficult to escape poverty, especially if they are breaking intergenerational cycles.