CHOC Honored with Recovery & Resiliency Award During Inspiring Ceremony
June 15, 2023
Martha’s Community Farm, nestled in the idyllic suburb of Audubon, PA, radiates a spirit of compassion and resilience. This enchanting 9-acre farm stands as a beacon of hope, supporting the largest food pantry in Montgomery County and extending a helping hand to those battling food insecurity. On a gorgeous day in May, the farm’s lush fields played host to the 10th Annual Montgomery County CSP Conference and 45th Annual Montgomery Mental Health Awards Reception. RHD’s Coordinated Homeless Outreach Center (CHOC) was one of the area’s organizations honored with a Recovery & Resiliency Award.
CHOC is the only year-round, 24/7 emergency housing service for single adults experiencing homelessness in Montgomery County. Participants can meet with a caseworker, wash their clothes, apply for benefits, or attend group meetings. Beyond emergency shelter, CHOC offers comprehensive services including counseling, transportation, nourishing meals, clothing, life skills training, and benefits guidance. In the face of adversity, CHOC’s compassionate team orchestrated a graceful relocation, ensuring temporary residences for participants while striving to secure a new permanent home for the program. One former CHOC participant reflected on her experience there. She shared, “I felt safe, comfortable, and at ease. My troubles had been lifted off my shoulders.”
The theme of this year’s event was “Courage to Continue.” During her opening remarks, Pam Howard, Mental Health/Developmental Disabilities/Early Intervention Administrator for the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, expounded on the theme. “Courage is not living a life free of challenge, free of fear, or free of frustration. It’s about finding strength internally. It’s risky to take chances and stick your neck out. It’s risky to make new connections and try new things.” Her words resonated with the entire audience, from individuals on their path to recovery and their families, to the dedicated peer specialists and administrators who tirelessly work to uplift others. Howard declared, “We are the bearers of hope.”
CHOC staff, participants, and alumni attended the event, as did staff from several other local RHD programs. It served as a wonderful opportunity for everyone to relax, catch up, and spend some quality time together on a beautiful spring day. Before the awards ceremony, attendees took part in a Tai Chi demonstration, a drum circle, and craft-making workshop. Mission BBQ catered the delicious lunch featuring pulled chicken and pork, mac and cheese, green beans, and more.
During the ceremony, CHOC received recognition for their commitment to the most vulnerable individuals in Montgomery County. Christina Jordan, program director and CHOC staff collected the well-deserved award. It was apparent to all in attendance, CHOC staff truly embody the RHD Value of Respect for the Dignity and Worth of Each Individual.
To learn more about CHOC and donate to their mission, visit https://www.rhd.org/choc/. Visit CHOC on social media by checking them out on Facebook and Instagram.