A New Leaf, a leading provider of shelter services and programs for families in need across the Valley, is proud to announce a strategic acquisition of Homeward Bound, a prominent shelter and transitional housing provider known for their robust and top-rated Strong Foundations Early Childhood education program.
The merger comes at a crucial time as Maricopa County sees an unprecedented impact on families due to homelessness. With new leadership and after a comprehensive evaluation, Homeward Bound’s Board of Directors, in consultation with its Interim CEO and Executive Committee, made the strategic decision to join forces with A New Leaf to secure long-term sustainability and uninterrupted service delivery to the families they serve.
This merger not only signifies the joining of two revered organizations with a shared mission but also marks an important expansion for A New Leaf in the Phoenix market, building on the recent opening of a 100-bed shelter in Phoenix last October.
Both organizations have a strong commitment to housing, shelter and wraparound services for families in need. Homeward Bound has dedicated over 33 years to helping families facing homelessness. Recent funding challenges threatening the organization's sustainability prompted Homeward Bound to seek a partnership that ensures the continuation and expansion of its critical services. A New Leaf, with its extensive network of 8 shelters and 30 other programs across the Valley, and operational strengths in finance, human resources, and fundraising is perfectly positioned to integrate Homeward Bound’s programs, furthering the joint mission of providing comprehensive support to the most vulnerable families in our community.
“This merger is not just about combining resources; it’s about leveraging our strengths to make a more significant impact on the families we serve,” said Michael Hughes, CEO of A New Leaf. “Together, we will ensure that families in emergency and transitional housing across our network receive the comprehensive support they need to achieve permanent housing and stability.”
In the short term, Homeward Bound will focus on a seamless transition, focusing on maintaining uninterrupted program delivery to the families currently residing at the Thunderbirds Village Family Campus.
“We are grateful for the community’s support over the years and during this transition,” said Heather Josowitz Allen, Homeward Bound Interim CEO. “The merger with A New Leaf is a testament to our commitment to do the right thing for our families, ensuring the legacy and mission of Homeward Bound continue in the most sustainable and impactful way.”
“By merging Homeward Bound within A New Leaf, everyone wins. Homeward Bound continues to provide exceptional housing and social services at its extraordinary facility in central Phoenix. A New Leaf gets to bring another high impact, high visibility program within its umbrella, and one that is perfectly matched for what we do, said Tyler Abrahams, A New Leaf Board Chair. “And most of all, the community wins by reaping the benefits of these housing and social services in a moment when they are sorely needed in Phoenix,” Abrahams concluded.
“I am deeply proud of the foundation we have established for our community. I am confident that in our union with A New Leaf, we will move forward, united in our commitment to ensure that every family in our care has access to the support, education, and housing they need to thrive," said Nathan Cabbil, Board Chair for Homeward Bound.
The merger is expected to be completed in the coming months, with both organizations working closely to ensure a seamless integration of services and programs. More details about the merger and its impact on the services provided will be shared with stakeholders and the community as they become available.
A New Leaf and Homeward Bound look forward to opening this new chapter together, united in their mission to help families in our community facing homelessness. To support their shared mission community members are encouraged to consider meaningful contributions or end-of-year tax donations.
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About A New Leaf
About A New LeafA New Leaf is committed to “Helping Families, Changing Lives” by providing life-changing services to those facing domestic violence, homelessness, and other heartbreaking challenges. With nearly 40 programs at locations across the Valley, A New Leaf works to address some of the most pressing challenges in our local community. With 53 years of service in the Valley, A New Leaf anticipates improving more than 23,000 lives this year through comprehensive programming. To learn more about A New Leaf and its services visit turnanewleaf.org or to donate visit turnanewleaf.org/donate/.
About Homeward Bound
Homeward Bound has been a cornerstone in the Phoenix community for over 33 years, offering shelter, transitional housing, and a highly-regarded early childhood education program for families facing homelessness. Its mission is to meet every family’s unique needs on their journey home.