Remembering Fathers who are experiencing homelessness on Father’s Day

Father-holding-child's-hand

Father’s Day is a time to honor and celebrate the fathers and father figures who have provided love, support, and guidance. It’s a day filled with joy, appreciation, and, often, a family gathering. However, for many fathers in Chester County, PA, this day is a stark reminder of their struggles and hardships. Homelessness does not […]

Gemelli has a sweet deal for you, and it gives back to Friends Association

S'more Gelato

Gemelli has a sweet deal for you, and it gives back to Friends Association! Nestled in the heart of West Chester, Pennsylvania, Gemelli Gelato has been delighting locals and visitors alike with its artisanal gelato creations for years. With a commitment to quality ingredients and inventive flavors, Gemelli has become a beloved fixture in the […]

What is Hunger and Homelessness Awareness week?

a bench is not a bed

What is Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week? “Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week“ is a national initiative to raise awareness about hunger and homelessness issues and encourage communities to act. For example, volunteering or donating to Friends Association for Care & Protection of Children and their mission to end homelessness in Chester County. Typically observed in […]

What is the Eviction Prevention Case Resolution Program (EPCR)?

a woman packing boxes sadly

In a world where affordable housing remains a pressing issue, eviction prevention programs have emerged as a beacon of hope for many families facing the imminent threat of losing their homes. Friends Association’s Eviction Prevention Case Resolution Program (EPCR) plays a crucial role in helping vulnerable individuals and families stay housed, exploring the steps it […]

Family Center Ribbon Cutting

people standing at a ribbon cutting

A ribbon cutting on August 30 officially opened a renovated Friends Association Family Center in the heart of downtown West Chester that provides temporary housing to families distressed by homelessness. The Friends Association apartment building on Chestnut Street can accommodate six families for 90 days while they work with a case worker to secure permanent […]

Jennifer Lopez is Stepping Down as CEO

Friends Association for Care & Protection of Children’s CEO Jennifer Lopez will depart the agency to spend time with her granddaughter while focusing on her service as a Commissioner at the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, where she serves as Chair of the Mental Health and Justice Advisory Committee. Jennifer’s dedication, vision, and unwavering […]

From the desk of CEO Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez, CEO stands in front of NIA House

At the beginning of May, after much contemplation, I made the decision that it was time to bring my work at Friends Association to a close. It’s been almost 5 years- a pandemic, a million-dollar renovation of a 200-year-old building, a chronic housing problem that has become acute, a mural, a 200th Anniversary, the launching […]

Recognizing Juneteenth in Chester County

A banner about Juneteenth

In recent years, Juneteenth has gained significant recognition across the United States as an important milestone in African American history. Commemorated on June 19th each year, Juneteenth marks the day when the last enslaved individuals in Texas were finally informed of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. While the […]

Reflections on Father’s Day

A Father walking with his child in Autumn.

As Father’s Day approaches, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the significance of this special day and the challenges faced by those fathers who find themselves homeless in Chester County. While Father’s Day is often associated with joyous celebrations and heartfelt appreciation for dads, it’s essential to acknowledge and extend compassion to those who […]

Journalist Savannah Guthrie sat down with the remarkable Susan Burton

A headshot of Susan Burton on the left and Savannah Guthrie on the right.

Last Saturday night, viewers around the world were captivated by an inspiring interview on MSNBC. Journalist Savannah Guthrie sat down with the remarkable Susan Burton, a woman who has dedicated her life to bringing hope and healing to the lives of countless individuals. In a heartfelt conversation, Burton shared her personal journey of overcoming adversity, […]