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The downward spiral into homelessness often begins with a crisis or major life change that is greater than a person or family can handle. To stop the slide Trust House in Roanoke steps in with transitional housing and financial counseling to help people cope with the short-term setbacks before they become long-term problems.
Mayor David Bowers and U.S. Cellular recognized Trust House for its accomplishments in the fight against homelessness. The company presented Trust House with a $25,000 grant and associates volunteered their time cleaning up and painting at the shelter on Sept. 24. “Many of our residents just need some short-term stability so they can get back on their feet,” said Daren Gunter, executive director of Trust House. “We can help them through the crisis and develop the life skills and financial independence so they can regain control of their lives.” “Because of Trust House, hundreds of people have been saved from the cycle of homelessness, where one life crisis leads to another,” said Mayor Bowers. “Funding from the private sector is a big help to the organizations that provide important services in our communities and it’s refreshing to see a company come together for a nonprofit by giving both their time and their financial support.” In the last three years U.S. Cellular has donated more than $180,000 through charitable funds and United Way contributions in the Mid-Atlantic region. “A lot of people count on Trust House to help them when they need it most,” said Dee Taylor, director of sales for U.S. Cellular in the Mid-Atlantic region. “We’re here to let Trust House know they can count on all of us to help them too.” Trust House provides emergency and transitional housing to homeless individuals and families with emphasis on case management, life skills education and financial independence. These services are provided in a safe, confidential and home-structured environment where people can recover from crises, move toward greater self-sufficiency and move on to permanent housing. The 8,700 associates of U.S. Cellular believe a wireless phone enhances people’s lives and a wireless company should be in the business of bringing people together. Based in Chicago, U.S. Cellular is the nation's sixth-largest wireless carrier, serving 6.2 million customers across the country. To learn more about the company visit one of its retail stores or uscellular.com. Mayor Bowers helps U.S. Cellular present $25,000 to the Trust House. Photo:Pictured from left to right: Mayor David Bowers, Dee Taylor, U.S. Cellular Director of Sales for the Mid-Atlantic Region, Daren Gunter, Executive Director of Trust House, Dr. Paula Prince Chair of the Roanoke Valley, Alleghany Regional Advisory Council on Homelessness. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Cellular)
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