As Thanksgiving comes to a close, all of us at The INN Between are thinking of you with deep gratitude. You are part of the reason our residents have a place where they can be safe, cared for, and truly seen—especially on days like these. Below is a photo of the lovely volunteers that helped us set the tables, serve the food, and help clean up.
Today, our home was filled with the sounds and smells of Thanksgiving. A homemade feast was prepared, and our residents gathered around tables set with care, sharing a meal that was about so much more than food. It was comfort. It was dignity. It was a reminder that they belong somewhere, and that they matter to someone.
Many of our residents arrive here after months or even years of illness without a door they could close behind them, without a bed that was theirs, and without people who could help them heal. To be able to offer a warm room to recuperate in, a soft landing when their bodies are exhausted, and a Thanksgiving meal made with love is an incredible gift. And you are the ones who make it possible.
Thanksgiving holds a different kind of sacredness for us. This season, we anticipated honoring the 170 individuals who have passed while in our care. That was before we experienced two deaths today—one resident surrounded by family, and one without family, but with the steady presence of our No One Dies Alone volunteer team by his side for the last 24 hours. Their lives mattered. Their deaths mattered. We carry them with us.
As we say goodbye to two residents, Nelson and Rickey, we’re reminded of how deeply grateful we are that their final moments were met with compassion, dignity, and presence. That is the heart of what you make possible here.
There are not many days that go by where we don't have a blue butterfly on someone's name plaque. Signifying that they are transitioning and letting the community know to hold space. We feel honored that although we witness human suffering each day, we can do something about it. No one should die alone or in the cold. Because of you, they won’t.
So from all of us staff, volunteers, and residents, thank you. Thank you for believing in compassion that shows up in real ways. Thank you for giving people a chance to rest, to recover, and when recovery isn’t possible, to be held in care and dignity to the very end.
We hope your Thanksgiving was filled with peace, warmth, and the comfort of those you love.