There is no doubt that 2020 has been unprecedented for us all. The ongoing coronavirus pandemic brought us all challenges to Stay Home and Stay Safe. People experiencing homelessness when the virus hit were especially vulnerable, without adequate shelter to “Stay Home” and without masks and necessary supplies to “Stay Safe.”

Thanks to the agencies and programs that comprise our region’s Coordinated Access Network (CAN), many of our most vulnerable continued to receive the resources and support needed to stay safe.

The Development Committee members at Thames River Family Program brainstormed ways to host a special event to thank those who have worked tirelessly throughout this period. How could we stay social distanced and yet celebrate the heroes amongst us? How could we celebrate the love and concern we have here in Southeastern Connecticut for our families, our friends and our greater community?

We hope you will join us for our “Road Rally – Revving up for a Stronger Community” on Oct. 17 by entering your car and participate in the parade, watching the parade along the route, or donating and supporting the Thames River Family Program at trfp.org/road-rally.

Thames River Family Program, located in Norwich, provides a transitional housing program for young families (parents from 18 to 24 years old) experiencing homelessness. This program provides these parents with opportunities to attain employable skills and resources, higher levels of education, and financial literacy.

These families leave years of instability and homelessness behind as they learn to become more independent and move to permanent housing.

Throughout this pandemic, the young parents in Thames River continued to receive support and resources with the assistance of our staff.

Sandra Wheeler of Waterford is a member of the Thames River Community Service Development Committee.

Kindness in Real Life is a regular feature in The Times. To contribute, email times@theday.com.