In November, we formally wrapped up our celebration of 100 years at our Centennial Gala. The gala was a chance to reflect, celebrate, and a chance to look into the future.

This is how our entire communities MUST – and DID – come together to make meaningful and lasting change in one family’s life.

As we approach Thanksgiving, CSL would like to thank you, our loyal supporters and friends, for everything you've done to make this historic anniversary year a special one.

Staff worked long and hard to get the house move-in ready with all of the essentials so that it was not just a house - it was a place Samuel, Bessie, and their children could call “HOME”. On November 2, 2016, the family moved in and now has a place to lay their heads at night and make everlasting memories.

Most families that we are helping have been chronically homeless, and have very few personal possessions. We expect to house all these families before Christmas, but we need your gently-used household items.

When Tammy came to CSL, Work Express helped her create a résumé, she used the computer lab, and was given job leads. Tammy and her daughter also received help with school supplies, the Christmas store, and emergency assistance to help make ends meet.

When CSL helps parents during the Holiday season, we are helping them potentially avoid making some disastrous financial decisions. Additionally, CSL's support can help turn stressful times into joyous occasions for kids and parents alike.

Low-income families need access to loans to invest in themselves and their futures. This vulnerable population needs credit just as much, if not more than their middle- and wealthy-class counterparts.

Jane has been a CSL client for nearly four years. She and her family are well on their way to experiencing long-lasting change and achieving their dreams!

So that all kids can have a good start to the school year, CSL is once again hosting our Back to School Fairs and providing backpacks, school supplies, tennis shoes, and other educational resources to low-income students and their families.

Josh is one of our newest staff members - you'll find him in the Noland Road warehouse unloading shipments, processing donations, coordinating drop-offs, and optimizing storage.

If you're already a supporter of the Back to School Fairs, but are looking for other ways to support the education of children living in poverty, here are some ways you can do that.