Lodi House continues to be a lifeline for women in need

Wes Bowers, Lodi News-Sentinel, Calif.
·2 min read

Apr. 12—A local nonprofit will be celebrating the resilience of women who have been able to triumph over adversity and get back on their feet this weekend.

Lodi House will host its 8th Annual "Be Amazing" on Sunday, April 14 from 3-5 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 267 N. Mills Ave.

With the theme "Life's Unexpected Choreography," Lodi House executive director Shelby Young said the event will guide attendees through the three steps of recovery the nonprofit provides.

The first is "learning the steps," which will describe Lodi House's shelter program; the second is "practicing steps," which will describe the recovery program; and the third id "Stepping up Together," which will feature stories from some Lodi House alumna, Young said.

Dublin-based Anastsis Ballet Company will perform a visual interpretation of one of the alumna's stories of their journey through the Lodi House program.

"Our aim with this event is twofold," Young said. "To raise awareness about the invaluable work of Lodi House and to honor the extraordinary women and children who have thrived through our program."

Young said Sunday's event is already sold out, but residents can still help Lodi House next week by participating in a matching donation initiative.

Several individuals in Lodi have gifted the nonprofit $27,500, she said, and she is hoping to double that amount through donations between April 14 and 21.

The goal is raise $55,000 to help with the nonprofit's program and operational costs. she said.

To donate, visit www.lodihouse.org, Venmo LodiHouse or text "GIVE" to 916-299-9678.

Founded in 1999, Lodi House is dedicated to providing a secure, structured haven for homeless women and children.

In early 2000, the organization raised funds to transform a house located at 801 S. Washington St. into the Lodi House shelter.

The first resident moved in with her two children on Sept. 11, 2000, and the program began to grow.

Lodi House opened its Thrift Store on Lodi Avenue in 2010, and the program further expanded the following year to include three transitional apartments as well as an enrichment center where clients and graduates can receive free counseling and attend personal growth workshops.

Today, the nonprofit operates seven transitional housing apartments for women and children recovering from a life on the streets.

"(Sunday) an inspirational day of hearing stories of women overcoming challenges, and how they are continuing to succeed and grow," Young said. "When we talk about Lodi House, it's not just about surviving, but using resources and relationships to grow, thrive and give back to the community."