With life returning to some kind of normal where many kids can be at libraries and camps and school, it is a delight to meet readers near and far. 
The readers at Harbor House in Oakland California had a lot to share about their fears:
What it feels like when you don’t speak English and people laugh at you when you try to talk.
And questions: Have you ever been bullied?
They had wise suggestions too:
Find someone who is quiet and shy like you are and make friends with that person.
In deed!
Learn more about Harbor House here: https://hhministries.org
Harbor House is a non-profit with a compelling mission.
RELATIONAL
Knowing that all people need healthy, safe, and caring relationships to thrive, we create spaces for the development of mutually beneficial relationships which break down racial, ethnic, and economic barriers.
EMPOWERING
All people are created in the image of God with gifts to share. We celebrate the value, talents, and dignity of our neighbors and deliver services in a way that empowers participants.
Mission and History
Harbor House is a Christian community development organization in Oakland, California. Our mission is to provide a safe place for opportunities, resources, and relationships to be shared so that children, teens, and families may flourish.
For five decades, Harbor House has served thousands of families through high quality programs that nurture heart, soul, mind, and body. Olive Freeman, a fourth grade teacher in Oakland, noticed that some of her students lacked basic necessities. Compelled by her love of Jesus, Mrs. Freeman responded by gathering food, clothing, and books and handing them out from the trunk of her car. She also began tutoring her students after school. After a while, the local baker and postal carrier joined her in their spare time, followed by other volunteers from Mrs. Freeman’s church. They raised funds, prayed, and in time were able to purchase a large Victorian house on the corner of 18th Street and 11th Avenue in the San Antonio district of Oakland.
Harbor House Ministries incorporated as a non-profit in 1972 and will celebrate fifty years of service in 2022. What started as one woman responding to needs in the community is now a multifaceted community development organization offering hope to hundreds of families each year.