I was disheartened to read the misleading multi-page articles about the family shelter in the November 22 edition.
The pieces focused on flashy fear-mongering headlines and pictures (giant cockroach) instead of balanced reporting. I was disappointed that a thorough approach was not taken, such as including the perspective from the immigrant families at the shelter and from people that work and interact with the families regularly.
I have volunteered weekly at the shelter since it opened in spring 2023. I have witnessed the hardworking, resilient families who are grateful for this community’s support as they navigated life in this new place. I have seen parents go off to work to contribute to our community. I have seen staff work tirelessly to help its residents and maintain the property. I have seen children grow and play through the safety, care, and educational opportunities provided. I have been awe-inspired by the big and small wins that these children have accomplished.
I am proud of our community-based actions: coat/mitten drives; shoe drives by students; creation of an outdoor play space; establishing a community clothes closet; inclusion/baptisms in our faith communities; and many more kindnesses that have truly mattered.
As a Concord Public Schools parent, I have been impressed by the schools’ welcoming, supportive environment. I have witnessed the enriching friendships that the new students have given to my children. Just this Thanksgiving, my son paused to say how grateful he was for his little buddies from the family shelter.
Since my initial submission, more articles have been published about the shelter. But I believe a more balanced approach can still be achieved. These resilient families and children have been a part of our community for 20 months — their voices and stories deserve to be heard.
Alison Hassinger
Elsinore Street
