September 2025 Newsletter

In July 2025, LaShone walked through the doors of the East Valley Men’s Center, looking for a new start. “Before I came here, I was staying with friends, house to house,” he says. “I didn’t have an ID, so I couldn’t get a job. That’s what led me to becoming homeless. But this program helped me get an ID, and now I’ve got a better chance.”

LaShone moved to Arizona from Ohio, where he lived with family. This is his first experience with homelessness, and he’s determined to make it temporary. “I don’t want to stay long, just a couple of months so I can save money from a job and find my own apartment,” he shares. He’s currently looking for work in warehouses, where he already has experience. “I worked in Cleveland making rims for semi-truck tires. I’d like something like that again.”

He’s already making use of the resources at the shelter. “They give me three meals a day. I use the gym, and I just got some new clothes from here,” he says. “If I need anything, I can go to my case manager, and they’ll help me out.”

What stands out most about LaShone is his generous spirit. “If I have a dollar and my friend is right there, believe me, he’s going to get 50 cents,” he says. “If I get a blessing, I share my blessing with someone else. When everybody’s blessed, everybody’s happy. Nobody’s hungry, nobody’s thirsty.”

His advice for anyone who’s homeless? “Come here. It beats the street. The staff is good, and the people here are pretty nice. I used to look at homeless people differently, but now I see they’re no different than I am. Sometimes we just have bad times and good times. Sometimes you’re one missed paycheck away from being homeless. You’ve got to pick up from the bad times and keep moving.”

LaShone’s goal is simple but powerful: “I see myself working, paying my bills, keeping food in my refrigerator, and clothes on my back. That’s what I’m focused on right now. Never give up. Keep your head up.”

A New Leaf welcomed sisters from Arizona State University’s Alpha Chi Omega chapter to La Mesita Community for their annual Day of Action. This cherished tradition brought together volunteers, staff, and survivors to celebrate more than 10 years of partnership, over $250,000 donated, and countless hours of service.

The event was filled with moving moments as survivors courageously shared their stories, reminding everyone of the resilience and strength that shines in the face of hardship. A New Leaf staff also highlighted programs that provide shelter, advocacy, and support, offering a glimpse into the everyday work that brings safety and hope to families in crisis.

This year’s celebration held an extra note of excitement as Alpha Chi Omega presented a generous $19,000 donation to support survivors of domestic violence. Joining the celebration was none other than Sparky the Sun Devil, who helped spread joy and Sun Devil spirit throughout the day.

Going even further this month, the ASU Alpha Chi Omega sisters also dropped off new, unused hygiene items to our donation center. Their contribution will make a meaningful impact and provide valuable support to individuals at Autumn House and others within our programs.

We are deeply grateful to Alpha Chi Omega for their continued commitment. Through their service and generosity, they stand beside A New Leaf in helping families find safety, stability, and a brighter future.

Our most pressing needs right now are:

• • Pots and pans
  • Instant noodles/ramen
  • Canned protein (chicken, tuna, etc.)
  • Men’s clothing and shoes (all sizes)
  • Men and women’s deodorant
  • Water bottles/cases/gallons
  • Canned fruit
  • Boxes of pasta
  • Dry rice bags and microwaveable rice packs
  • Instant oatmeal
  • Pancake mix
  • Cereal
  • Boxed macaroni and cheese
  • Clorox/Lysol wipes
  • Paper towels
  • Toilet paper

Do you have an ICE Box?

It may be hot outside, but one way to get cool is with an ICE Box!  An ICE Box is a place to keep your important documents In Case of an Emergency. If getting organized has been on our to do list for years, then let A New Leaf  help you check it off.  

Our Professional Advisors Council (experts in estate planning, financial advising, real estate, and senior support services) invites you to a workshop designed to help you finally get your important documents in order. In just two hours, you’ll learn the how-to’s and receive all the organizational materials you need to create your own ICE Box (In Case of Emergency Box). 

One of our last session attendees shared, “Wow! This is incredibly thorough.  We’ve done some planning, but you’ve really helped us get it all together in one place!  It makes me feel so much better knowing my family will have everything they need if something happens.”

Space is limited, so you are encouraged to RSVP early.  We have 2 sessions coming up in October, so RSVP today!

A New Leaf is proud to recognize Flagstar Bank in this month’s Funder Spotlight! For many years, Flagstar Bank has been a dedicated supporter of A New Leaf’s Financial Empowerment services.

Flagstar Bank gives back through the Flagstar Foundation, empowering individuals and communities to achieve lasting prosperity and meaningful progress.

This year, Flagstar is supporting our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program that provides free, professional tax preparation to qualifying households.

The VITA program plays a powerful role in improving financial well-being for families across the Valley. By offering accurate, IRS-certified tax preparation at no cost, VITA ensures that low- to moderate-income households receive every dollar they are owed, including valuable tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

These refunds often provide a crucial boost, helping families catch up on bills, cover essential expenses, or start building savings. With the support of the Flagstar Foundation, A New Leaf’s VITA program helped over 4,500 households receive more than $5M in tax refunds this year.

Over the years, Flagstar’s consistent investments have amplified the impact of Financial Empowerment services, touching thousands of lives and opening doors to new opportunities. Thanks to Flagstar Bank and the Flagstar Foundation, we are building a stronger, more financially resilient community!

With One Voice Breakfast – Raise Your Voice for Survivors