Looking back on HOPE Week

Courtesy photo Students learn the story of Stone Soup while attending a HOPE Week Event.

ALAMOSA — As HOPE week comes to an end, La Puente would like to thank all the volunteers and staff who helped put this week’s events together.

This week, the Valley Educational Gardens Initiative shared the folk story of Stone Soup and prepared soup with vegetables the elementary school students grew and harvested the week before. Over 450 students attended the harvest and soup making. The event ended with the students chanting, “Bring what you’ve got and put it in the pot, ‘cause we’re making stone soup!” The last batch of soup went to feed the guests at La Puente’s shelter, bringing the story’s values full circle.

La Puente would like to thank all the volunteers who read the story and spent time with the students, especially Mayor Ty Coleman, Rachel Cheslock, Jess Chacon, Don Hanna, Karla Shriver, Liza Marron, and George & Linda Rush.

On Wednesday, Sept. 22, over 50 people attended the candlelight vigil held to remember those who have passed on or are still experiencing homelessness. A special thanks to Reverend Amber Mitts for her partnership; Don Hannah, Laura Fierce and Rachael Cheslock for sharing their musical talents; and the clients of La Puente who shared their experiences and stories.

La Puente’s short film, directed by Teddy Leinbach, can still be found on the La Puente Youtube at https://bit. ly/2VIxppO. The film highlights and shares the personal stories of those staying at the St. Benedict’s encampment. The encampment, which is located off 20th street behind the Lee softball fields, on any given night has 25 to 30 people take residence. Through the events o f HOPE week, community awareness and compassion for our most vulnerable community members is increased, making their struggles visible and known. This was made possible through these educational events— thank you for making a lasting impact in our community.

For more information on how to support La Puente and their mission visit lapuentehome.org or call 719-589-5909.