MARCH 2014

We now have available some of our 2013 statistics (Clairemont Office only).  The numbers show that we had almost DOUBLE the number of visits from 2012.  We had 2936, almost 3,000 client visits in 2013.  We gave out emergency food to 2216 clients! Provided over 52,000 diapers or 3,293 bags of diapers and 211 layettes!

At our March Staff meeting, we had a representative from the FIRST FIVE STEPS HOME VISITING PROGRAM come to talk about the work they do that our clients can benefit from.  It is great to know our clients have another resource in the community to help them raise their precious little children.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT:

Angela Elfman along with some of our other volunteers has been going above and beyond to get our office files organized and to spend extra time at Birthline with Jeanne Hansen learning the valuable skill of case management for our clients, many of whom have ongoing issues with housing, drug addiction, school, work and more.  Following up with these clients helps them to stay focused on their goals.

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT:

Last month a young man came into Birthline with his caseworker and an 8 week old baby.  The young man was on crutches.  He had been working in LA and after work went to get a bite to eat. On his way into the food store he was shot in the leg eight times by a stranger for no apparent reason.  The gun shot wounds require several surgeries in his leg that will take a year and as a result he lost his job.  His girlfriend is suffering from mental health issues and is institutionalized. This young man is homeless and unemployed looking after a newborn baby.  The homeless shelters that accommodate newborns in San Diego do not take in men.  This young man was up against a wall.  We were able to refer him to other resources in San Diego where he can get help & we provided him with food, diapers and clothing for his son.  We also fitted him with a baby carrier since he cannot carry the baby while using crutches.  This young many was up against what seemed like insurmountable obstacles, but with the assistance of Birthline and the other organizations that provide charity for the homeless and young families in need, he will get through this most challenging time in his life.