Sojourner Truth House Walk Inspires Community Support

Fundraising events vary, but for Gary’s Sojourner Truth House, the event titled “Walk for Stability. Walk for Community. Walk for Hope” represented a local effort. On Saturday, this event was a neighborhood walk around Gary. Angela Paul, the executive director of Sojourner Truth House, alongside Pam King, director of client services, addressed the attendees before the walk began, supporting the facility.

Volunteer coordinator Airiel Crenshaw highlighted the significance of participating through peer-to-peer fundraising both online and in-person. This marked the 29th year of the event. Sojourner Truth House is a day center dedicated to supporting at-risk women and children. The walk aimed to raise awareness and support for families transitioning from crisis to stability, as Crenshaw detailed. By walking, donating, or forming teams, participants contribute to essential resources like housing support, food access, case management, and healing programs.

This year, more than 200 walkers participated, circling the neighborhood around the facility. Mary Turner, a local resident, shared her support, emphasizing the center’s importance. Established by the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ in 1997, the house offers hospitality, recovery, advocacy, and housing to those in need, impacting both the local and nearby communities.

Representatives from the Dedicated Strong Women of Embassies of Christ also set up an information table at the annual event. Among them were Lola Holden, Ava Marshall-Ligon, Sherrie Greer, and Vernell Anderson. Sister Kathleen Quinn, aged 92, expressed her joy at the turnout, appreciating the community’s continued support.

Participants included community members, families, and local groups. Walker Sherrie Greer from Dedicated Strong Women praised the house’s role as a community staple. The historical significance of Sojourner Truth, born Isabella Baumfree in 1797, was noted as she had worked towards freedom and advocacy for women’s rights. Her legacy of social justice and empowerment continues to inspire.

The walk’s route spanned 1.1 miles, starting and ending at Sojourner Truth House, with cheer stations to motivate the participants. Post-walk activities included refreshments, music, social engagement, vendor connections, and a children’s play area.

According to Crenshaw, the walk powerfully conveyed a message of community support, emphasizing pathways to hope and stability. The proceeds directly benefit the programs at the facility, portraying a caring community walking alongside individuals and families striving to rebuild their lives.