Dubuque non-profit Opening Doors aims to take care of women with no place to go while helping them to get them back on their feet. “Opening Doors’ story started in 2000 with a homeless woman on a park bench with no place to stay,” said Ann Lorenz, development and marketing director of Opening Doors. “Since that time, we have empowered over 3,300 women and children, teaching them life skills to help them build a brighter future for their families.” The Opening Doors Organization, which operates Teresa Shelter, Maria House, and the Francis Apartments, provides shelter and life and job skills training for women in the Tri-State area. Maria House provides transitional housing for residents up to two years, while Teresa Shelter offers short-term emergency shelter services and an [...]

What are Baskets Of Care?  Well in order to understand that, you’ll first need some background information about Dubuque’s very own Maria House. It’s almost time to decorate those eggs and indulge in candy – Easter is approaching quickly (April 12th) and some people may not get the opportunity to celebrate the holiday.  That’s why organizations like Maria House here in Dubuque, Iowa are starting to gather materials to build baskets.  The baskets are intended for families who receive aid from Maria House so that everyone can celebrate Easter and have fun during the Easter holiday. Sherry McDonell who has been a member of Maria House since before it opened explained to us the way the organization works.  Sherry, who “absolutely loves working for Maria House” [...]