When life gets complicated, support shouldn’t be. Neighborhood House surrounds families with a connected network of services so they can get what they need—without the barriers.
A letter from our Executive Director, Janice Deguchi
Housing, Learning, and Support — All in One Place
Not long ago, one of our preschool teachers received a call that a family in her class was just days away from eviction. The parents were doing everything they could, but without help, they’d lose their home — and their two young children, one with special needs, would lose the stability they depended on to learn and grow.
In just a few days, staff from multiple Neighborhood House programs came together to act. Our Housing Stability team found emergency funding to cover back rent, teachers stayed in close contact to ensure the children’s learning wasn’t disrupted, and care coordinators connected the family with ongoing support to keep them stable long after the crisis passed.
Because of that collaboration, the family stayed in their home, and the children stayed in school.
More Than Services — A Network of Support for One Family
A single mother came to us seeking stability for herself and her two children, one of whom has cerebral palsy, autism, and seizures. After experiencing domestic violence and living in emergency housing through King County Housing Authority, she needed support.
Through one coordinated effort, Neighborhood House helped this family:
• Secure a wheelchair and special bed for her son through Bridge Disability Ministries.
• Receive $1,100 in utility credits and ongoing support for future bills.
• Connect with English classes and GED preparation through Edmonds College.
• Apply to the ORCA LIFT program and access affordable transportation.
• Arrange respite care so she could rest and care for her family.
• Advocate with her landlord to secure a safe parking space for visiting providers.
All of this happened seamlessly, through one web of support — addressing the whole family, not just one need.
Staying Connected during Big Changes
Before moving to Washington, one Brazilian mother had already been taking steps to build a better life. She enrolled in ESL classes and worked in a Head Start program, gaining skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. When she arrived here with her young daughter, she faced a new set of challenges — learning the systems, finding community, and balancing work and parenting.
Neighborhood House became a partner in her next steps. She was introduced to us through our Citizenship Classes, our program designed to guide adults through the naturalization process. Week after week, she navigated being a single parent, work, and study — often with her daughter peeking into the Zoom screen, waving and bringing smiles to everyone in the room. Her dedication inspired her classmates and instructors, and when she passed her citizenship interview, she said proudly, “Class gave me the confidence to apply and pass!”
Her journey shows how one program, combined with guidance and support across services, can transform a family’s future. Families like hers are still navigating uncertainty. Your gift today ensures more parents and families can take their next step toward stability and opportunity.