The Summer 2026 issue of The Journey, Joseph & Mary’s Home’s biannual newsletter, was published in July 2026. The cover story features Harry, a resident alumnus who was living in his car and experiencing health challenges before arriving at Joseph’s Home to rest, recover with dignity and learn to manage his care. This edition also includes a message from new Executive Director Anna Stormer; a staff spotlight on Certified Community Health Worker Tearra Smith; a quick look at the new Joseph’s Home space; a 2025 Overview of Care; an explanation of the new resident referral process; the 2025 Donor Honor Roll; and additional news and notes. 

Below is the text from the cover story. You can read the complete newsletter here.

Focus on the Here and Now

Harry Takes Time to Heal After Years of Medical Hardships

Harry worked tirelessly for years to provide for his family. A union laborer who also had his own handyman business, he was never averse to long hours.

However, the physical challenges of Harry’s career, plus pre-existing health conditions, took a toll on his body.

Diabetes. Gastroparesis. Multiple heart attacks. Stent insertion. Triple bypass surgery. Stroke. Neuropathy in his arm and feet. Failing eyesight. At age 55, Harry had experienced all of it.

With his diabetes severely out of control and other health ailments hindering him, he couldn’t work. Eventually, he ended up living in his truck on Cleveland’s near west side. An infection in his toenail put him in the hospital — and put him on the path toward Joseph & Mary’s Home.

A New Job: Recovering Safely

Harry moved into Joseph & Mary’s Home in summer 2025. He was ready for a new beginning and the chance to heal.

“I was nervous and apprehensive, but everyone was so nice right away,” said Harry. “As a kid I heard the phrase, ‘Each one, reach one.’ They did that here. They let me know someone cares.”

After years of working, Harry quickly learned his #1 job was to rest, allow his toenail to heal and learn to better manage his diabetes. He also began regularly seeing other doctors for his heart and stomach issues.

“The staff here, they made sure I got in quickly to the doctors I needed to see. They were so easy to talk to, and made me feel safe,” he said.

Harry, in turn, made his fellow residents feel safe. He had in-depth conversations with many of them — “people need people” — and made sure everyone knew it was ok to not only talk to him about their struggles, but to also talk to God.

“There are times you are so lonely and not sure if God is there,” said Harry. “But I believe He speaks to your mind and your heart; He blesses you in spirit and truth.”

“I found out who I am and who I am supposed to be at Joseph & Mary’s Home. I’ve always liked talking to God. But being here reminded me that God has me. I thank Him every day.”

Blessed Beyond Measure

Months of healing and determining his next steps at Joseph & Mary’s Home led Harry to securing an apartment last winter. He feels comfortable in his surroundings, as many in his building are also former Joseph & Mary’s Home residents. “We check in on each other and cook meals together,” he said.

He continues to go to his doctors’ visits and adhere to the medication regimen put in place for him. Living at Joseph & Mary’s Home reminded Harry it is ok — and necessary — to take care of his health.

Along with being deeply grateful for the Joseph & Mary’s Home staff, Harry feels blessed beyond measure by the donors who make the mission possible. “The giving that is done, whether it be financially, or works of the hands or whatever it is, benefits those in life right here, right now,” he said.