Word On The Street

We’re overjoyed to announce that our dear friend Kurt has finally found a place to call his own! We first met Kurt in 2014 when he was living outdoors, but with your help, we were able to assist him in starting fresh in Florida in 2017. Although life took a difficult turn, and he returned to Syracuse during the pandemic, our IMFK team was there to support him every step of the way.

Kurt’s journey hasn’t been easy, struggling with addiction and making tough choices, but in 2024, things took a turn for the better! He expressed his desire for change and worked with our Care Manager, JD, to secure housing. We’re thrilled to say that Kurt has received the keys to his very own apartment!
Here is a quote from JD

“One of the privileges of helping people into housing is the time you’re able to spend with them along the way and hear their stories of days gone by. My friend Kurt has shared many stories about his travels all over the country, from NY to Florida, Michigan to New Mexico, and places in between. Part struggle and part adventure for sure. Now, after years of wandering and housing instability, he has a place to call his own. I’m grateful to see him finally settled and welcome him home.”

Now, our commitment to Kurt is to ensure he feels stable, secure, and confident in his new home. Over the next six months, we’ll be supporting him every step of the way to prevent recidivism and make sure he knows he’s not alone. With your continued support, we’re honored to have played a part in Kurt’s journey, and we celebrate our 371st friend coming home!”

Celebrating a Milestone in Medical Outreach!

Over the past thirteen months, our medical outreach van, in partnership with Housecalls for the Homeless – Upstate, has achieved an impressive 1,408 medical engagements with 210 unique individuals experiencing homelessness. This initiative has not only provided essential medical services but also fostered meaningful connections, restoring dignity and hope to those we serve.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Lehmann, Mia Ruiz Salvadore, and the dedicated medical students who have joined us on the frontlines, bridging the gap between our friends on the streets and the community providers who care for them.

Special thanks to the City of Syracuse – Office of the Mayor Office of Neighborhood and Business Development for assisting IMFK in securing the HUD funding that transformed our vision into reality.

Witnessing the community come together to support our most vulnerable neighbors is truly inspiring. We remain committed to making a difference, one encounter at a time, and look forward to continuing this vital work together.
#medicaloutreach
#doctorswhocare
#medstudentsrock

John and Leigh Ann

Meet JD, the culinary mastermind behind Food for the Streets! When John is away, JD steps up to the plate, whipping up mouth-watering meals that bring joy to our friends on the streets. With a heart of gold, JD pours love into every dish, making sure everyone feels seen and valued.

On this day, JD’s creamy homemade mac-n-cheese was the star of the show! It was a huge hit on the streets, bringing smiles and full bellies to those who need it most. John and Leigh Ann can rest easy knowing that the IMFK mission continues to thrive with the same excellence and heart, even when they’re away.

We’re so grateful for our incredible team, who embody the IMFK spirit with passion and dedication. They bring value to those who feel invisible, shining God’s love and light in the darkest corners. All glory to God for the amazing work He’s doing through IMFK!

Miracles Happen When We Work Together! 🌟

Meet Jeff, our dear friend and a shining example of resilience! Once homeless and living under a bridge, Jeff’s life has been transformed thanks to the tireless efforts of our IMFK team and the support of our amazing community! 🙌

With a roof over his head, courtesy of our housing assistance, Jeff was ready to tackle employment. Our Care Manager, JD, and the team worked diligently to connect him with opportunities. And then, the big day arrived – an interview at Mento Produce! 🎉

We’re thrilled to announce that Jeff nailed it and landed a job! 🙌 A huge thank you to Mento Produce for giving Jeff a second chance at life. Your support means the world! 🌎

This journey from homelessness to employment is never easy, but with our dedicated Care Managers and the backing of our incredible supporters, we can make the impossible possible! 💪

Will you join us in Building Hope and Changing Lives? Your support makes stories like Jeff’s a reality. Donate now and help us continue to bridge the gap from homelessness to employment!

Thank you, our amazing Sous Chef Supporters, for being part of this beautiful story! Together, we’re making a difference! 💕

John and Leigh Ann

Dear Friends and Supporters,

What an incredible journey it has been at IMFK! Assisting our friends indoors is not just our goal, it’s our passion. But the journey begins much earlier, right in the waiting room, where we provide comprehensive support to prepare for this significant transition.

From connecting individuals to essential county services to navigating the complexities of paperwork for housing lists, we’re there every step of the way. And it doesn’t stop there; once indoors, we ensure they have everything needed to transform a house into a warm, welcoming home.

Take a moment to picture this: Eliesh and Alysia, our dedicated IMFK care managers, making the bed for Mark, a dear friend who’s just moving indoors. Mark’s story is one of hope and perseverance, and he joins over 300 individuals we’ve had the privilege of assisting off the streets of Syracuse since 2011.

None of this would be possible without you, our sous chefs of compassion. Your financial support fuels our mission to serve those who feel invisible, making days like these a reality.

Thank you for being part of this extraordinary mission. Together, we’re not just changing lives; we’re nurturing souls.

Warm regards,
John, Leigh Ann, and the IMFK Team