Home of the Sparrow has launched a door-decorating contest to help Chester County residents and businesses celebrate community spirit and raise awareness about housing insecurity in Chester County.

The Exton-based nonprofit invites the public to participate in “Decorating for a Mission: A Door for Everyone.” Residents are encouraged to decorate their door (or porch or window) with a Halloween or autumn theme for not only neighborhood bragging rights but also the chance to win prizes in the contest’s inaugural year.

Everyone can participate – individuals and businesses – simply by e-mailing a picture of their decorations. Donations from decorators and non-decorators alike will support Home of the Sparrow’s mission to partner with women facing homelessness to secure housing, achieve long-term stability, and chart new paths for their futures.

“Women and mothers are facing eviction and housing insecurity every day, right here in Chester County,” said Michelle Venema, CEO of Home of the Sparrow. “They don’t have a door of their own, and that inspired this event – every women and mother should have a home. We hope to provide an opportunity for children to learn about homelessness and philanthropy from their parents while helping to decorate and celebrate the arrival of fall and Halloween. We had to cancel our annual October Fashion Show this year, but we still want to generate community spirit around a fun holiday and an important cause.”

Share your photos on social media with #ADoorForEveryone. The contest lasts until Oct. 25.

Although Chester County is one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, many single women and mothers face the same problem – a lack of safe and affordable housing. Unexpected events like divorce, illness, or death of a spouse can quickly make it impossible to pay rent, despite working full time.

Home of the Sparrow provides a safety net for these women who are in danger of homelessness. The organization believes in the power of education and financial literacy as a tool to gain financial self-sufficiency and long-term housing stability.

Click here to learn more about Home of the Sparrow. Businesses interested in sponsoring the event can click here.

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