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Temple Beth El Blog

Healing House is Open and Welcomes Its First Families

08/20/2019 05:10:26 PM

Aug20

Cathy Rotter

The Healing House, a program of Madison-Area Urban Ministry (MUM), officially opened on July 8, 2019. Located at 303 Lathrop Street in Madison, this eight-bed facility provides 24/7 recuperative care by medically trained staff and volunteers for up to 28 days. It is the first program of its kind in Wisconsin and provides medical respite care to families who are homeless and have an immediate family member in need of ongoing medical care during recovery.

The Healing House provides clients meals, childcare assistance, and case management to end the cycle of homelessness. It is a cost-effective alternative for hospitals and the community, promoting wellness for homeless families in Dane County. Nationwide, there are 63 facilities offering medical respite, a proven model of care.

As an interfaith organization, MUM is responding to the call across faith traditions to care for the sick. In Judaism, the mitzvah of bikur cholim (Hebrew for “visiting the sick”) includes a wide range of activities that include providing comfort and support for people who are ill.

The Healing House is partnering with The Road Home for case management and volunteer assistance. Temple Beth El has partnered with both MUM and The Road Home in the past, and therefore it seemed natural for us to continue that partnership by volunteering with the Healing House. Volunteers are being asked to assist with dinner by cooking and dropping off meals or by serving and cleaning up after dinner at the house.

Two families have moved into permanent housing since the Healing House opened on July 8, a testament to the excellent case management provided by The Road Home staff. The families have been so appreciative of having a safe place to recuperate along with delicious meals to enjoy every night.

Temple Beth El volunteers will be providing meals and helping to serve the week of August 25–31 and in future weeks to be determined. If you are interested in helping out, please contact Cathy Rotter at c.rotter.mail@gmail.com.

April 23, 2024 15 Nisan 5784