Sowing Seeds of Hope

Get ready to enjoy some great food and tunes in support of Saginaw’s Mustard Seed Shelter. The organization is holding its fifth annual “Sowing Seeds of Hope” fall fundraiser on Thursday, October 7, from 6-9:30 p.m. at the SVRC Marketplace ballroom located at 203 S. Washington Ave. in downtown Saginaw.

Tickets are $60 and include a “strolling meal” prepared by SVRC vendors, wine and beer, plus musical entertainment by local band Count N Change. Attendees will also be able to participate in a variety of raffles for a chance to win gifts and goodies graciously donated by local businesses and supporters. A variety of sponsorship opportunities are also available. To order tickets or inquire about sponsorships, email info@themustardseedshelter.org or call (989) 295-8392. A sponsor letter and form can also be found at themustardseedshelter.org/events.

“We are excited to welcome guests again to the beautiful SVRC Marketplace ballroom, where we held our 2019 fundraiser,” said Amy Bartels Roe, executive director for Mustard Seed Shelter. “It’s such a great space – and we have designed the evening to allow for plenty of distancing while browsing raffle items, socializing, and enjoying the food and music. I’m really proud of the work our committee has done and all of the thoughtful touches going into the event.”

The evening will also include a short program that includes updates on major happenings at the home and a time for current and former guests to share their stories.

Sowing Seeds of Hope

“This event is a chance for our community to come together to support and build up those among us in need of love and compassion,” said Bartels Roe. “That’s the essence of sowing seeds of hope. We completed a major expansion and renovation project in 2020, doubling our capacity to serve women and children experiencing homelessness. I have been grateful every single day this year that we completed the expansion when we did."

"Now, more than ever, hearing the powerful stories from our guests is vital for people to begin to understand the complexity of homelessness. It is a privilege to work alongside these women daily as they unpack the stories of their lives and begin to heal and become full, contributing members of our community."

"These are our neighbors, co-workers, schoolmates and friends. They are literally hidden in plain sight. It’s important for them to know they are seen – and loved – by their community. We are looking forward to a marvelous evening, sowing seeds of hope together!”

About Mustard Seed Shelter

Since its founding in 1995, Mustard Seed Shelter has welcomed more than 1,275 women and children experiencing homelessness, providing emergency shelter to more than 90 individuals annually and assisting more than 90 people each year with permanent supportive housing services. During their time at Mustard Seed, guests find shelter from the weather, while working hand in hand with staff and volunteers who help them access the services they need to turn their lives around. Learn more at themustardseedshelter.org.