Rev. Megan
Berkowitz
Rev. Amy
Clark Feldman
Pastor Megan
February 14 2025
Along with Pastor Amy and several members of the congregation, I had the great privilege of visiting the new FamilyAid Family Navigation Center on Washington Street for the first time this week. Speeches were made, a ribbon was cut with many giant scissors, and people from throughout the Commonwealth who care about supporting homeless families gathered to celebrate and network together. The most inspiring part of the day for me, though, was the tour.
The new Family Navigation Center is called that because while it will shelter homeless families, it is more than just a shelter. There is open, bright play space for children, a kitchen where each family will have their own locking pantry and refrigerator, common spaces including classrooms for programming, rooms each with their own bathrooms, and a beautiful outdoor playground. There are murals on almost every wall and windows everywhere you look. In short, the building is designed to honor and uplift the dignity of every single adult and child who will call it home on their way to safe, stable, permanent housing. I was moved to see it, moved at how much FamilyAid is working to not just provide shelter but also to help people navigate through and out of homelessness.
Keep an eye out for more announcements soon about how our church is discerning how we can support the families who will be housed at the new FNC. In a time when vulnerable people all around us are at risk, and many of us feel helpless to intervene, it will be a blessing to us to be able to connect and offer a warm welcome into the Newton community.
Peace,
Megan
P.S. They asked us not to take photos during the tour, but I took just this one of the wall of supporters — YOU are represented there, thanks to the gift our church made from last year’s Christmas collection.
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