Dear Editor,
Thank you Dina Campeau for your warming thoughts (Gilroy
Dispatch, Oct. 7) on the forthcoming ground breaking of the Sobrato
Transitional Center for the homeless.
Dear Editor,
Thank you Dina Campeau for your warming thoughts (Gilroy Dispatch, Oct. 7) on the forthcoming ground breaking of the Sobrato Transitional Center for the homeless. The project is a testament to the commitment of as many people who gave of their time, vision and prayers – too many to enumerate here. However, I think we need to highlight the work of a few individuals who in fact were largely responsible for making this project a reality.
First, and most importantly, County Supervisor Don Gage gave his critical backing to the vision of the Gilroy Homeless Task Force. In the difficult public approval process, he lent a courageous moral voice to an issue of political and social consequence.
His unwavering support created the political space and will help the project to move forward. Furthermore, Supervisor Gage’s work did not stop there as he helped the Sobrato Transitional Center secure more than $2.5 million from the County of Santa Clara.
Jan Lindenthal and Dennis Lalor from South County Housing worked diligently with Barry Del Buono of EHC Lifebuilders, first to find a property and then through endless meetings with the Planning Commission, City Council and neighbors adjacent to the site. Through these processes that spanned multiple years, we have always had the sagacious support of our current mayor, Al Pinheiro.
The leadership of the South County Ministerial Association was a major force in this effort. Those involved included Fr. Dan Derry from St. Mary Church, Pastor Ron Koch from the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Pastor Mark Milwee from the First Baptist Church, Bruce Rowlinson from the Gilroy Presbyterian Church and Bishop Bud Argyle from the Church of the Latter Day Saints. They opened their doors, rallied the community and spoke with faith and determination.
Also, the volunteers who greet our guests or serve them a hot meal are all to be applauded.
Argyle epitomizes their dedication. He was a founding father of this effort. He still can be found at the front desk welcoming clients on cold winter nights.
Again, thank you citizens of Gilroy for your insight, courage and continued support.
Maria Skoczylas, Gilroy
