The past week was a tough one for the staff at Islington Seniors’ Shelter (ISS) as they mourned the loss of one of their residents.
Despite the difficult circumstances, the team managed to conclude the week on a positive note, coming together to celebrate Emergency Shelter Worker Appreciation Week with a time of bowling and pizza, a much-needed opportunity for connection and fun.
This was a pertinent glimpse into why the appreciation week exists – we do hard and important work.
They weren’t the only team to celebrate! From catered meals to karaoke, each of our sites celebrated in its own way as a chance to say a huge THANK YOU to every staff member who fulfills such a valuable role at THHS.
Fun events like these give a chance for our teams to rally together, cheer each other on, and share laughter creating beautiful community-minded atmospheres.
Navigating the complexities of shelter work, especially during difficult times, requires resilience and compassion. The remarkable cohesion displayed by the ISS team this week serves as just one example of the unwavering commitment you all have to the mission and work of supporting those experiencing homelessness.
THHS is truly thankful to have such exceptional teams. In your own creative way, each team does an amazing job navigating the challenges of this work while also finding moments to laugh and celebrate regardless of what each day brings. This teamwork exemplifies this month’s missional themes – Excellence and Mission so well, and it is an honour to watch it lived out.
As we conclude Emergency Shelter Worker Appreciation Week, we wanted to share some fun moments from across THHS as well as some employees who received an extra shout-out for their exceptional service.
Let’s keep celebrating our coworkers as we strive to be “The Hand of God, in the Heart of the City.”
Erin
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Prayer
Jesus, thank you for our workers and the unique role they play in our city.
We pray for a sense of calm over them, as they bring calm to situations of need and crisis day in and day out.
We pray for a strength and confidence over them that can only come from you.
Amen
(adapted from here)