The women at IHP are so thankful for all Saint Mary’s has done to support them. They would like to celebrate and show gratitude to S. Mary’s for their ongoing support and partnership On Sunday, October 19, In Her Presence will have homemade beignets for the 9:15 coffee hour and a delicious brunch made by the In Her Kitchen Chefs after the 10:15 service.
For those of you not familiar with IHP, it is a non-profit supporting immigrant families by cultivating connections, nurturing relationships, and providing learning opportunities essential for successful integration. Driven by the leadership of immigrant women residing in Maine, IHP’s mission is anchored in the firm belief that women’s empowerment, through access to education, is crucial to achievement for the entire family. In collaboration withindividuals born here, who possess lifelong knowledge of systems and opportunities, IHP strives to bridge cultur al divides and harness the strengths of both communities.
In Her Presence provides immigrant communities with many programs they have developed over the last 7 years:
Find Your Voice: ESL classes, conversation, speech therapy, tutors at shelters, swimming, singing and field trips
Build Your Dreams: career fulfillment classes including resume writing, internships, interview skills.
Lead the Way: career path training, including cooking, healthcare and Doula training
Business Consulting: IHP provides consulting to businesses interested in working with immigrants to make sure all points of view are clearly understood.
Frances Warde House: IHP manages this 24/7 residence for pregnant immigrant women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. All needs are met and care with clinical assistance is provided, housing up to 15 adults and 15 infants.
How can we continue to support IHP? IHP has a new wish list. Funding for more teachers, books and technology is their greatest need. The waiting list for In Her Presence ESL classes has doubled due to the recent cut in federal funding at Portland Adult Ed. Learning English is the key to independence and success.
Connection and Mentorship: English conversation practice, Mentor/be a friend, English teacher, class aid, guest speaker in the Network of Immigrant Professionals class.
Community Engagement: Organize a field trip for a small group of kids or adults, organize a potluck for a small group, host a community fundraising.
Youth and Family Support: Read to kids at Saturday Reading Club, holiday drive for a family, drop off a homecooked meal at the Frances Ward House, sponsor food at Frances Warde.
Donations and Essential Needs: Supplies to Frances Warde through our Amazon wish list, donate bus passes, sponsor a staff position to help sustain programs
Throughout the month of October, there will be information about our support for In Her Presence. Since 2017, Saint Mary’s has supported the growth of In Her Presence in many ways: As ESL volunteer teachers, as hosts the annual end of class celebrations for the students and teachers, by mentoring students and mothers, and giving generous monetary and clothing do nations for programs and for the Frances Warde House.
Join us to celebrate our valuable partnership with IHP on October 19!