Gratitude for a Faithful Partnership
by Alice Marleaux, Chief Engagement Officer
We are deeply grateful to Christ Episcopal Church for inviting Charlotte Family Housing to participate in their Faith Forum, A Place to Call Home. Since our earliest days, Christ Church has been a partner, and time and again they have shown what it looks like to walk faithfully beside organizations doing the hard, hopeful work of serving the unhoused.
This Faith Forum was part of Christ Church’s exploration of the first pillar of their outreach work, and it created space for a meaningful, honest conversation about what home truly means. Laura Konitzer, Christ Church’s Outreach Director, moderated the discussion with curiosity, and intention, asking thoughtful questions of Elizabeth Kurtz, CFH’s Executive Director, and Alice Marleaux, CFH’s Chief Engagement Officer.
Together, we reflected on the deeper meaning of home—not just as a physical space, but the feelings of belonging, safety, security, and dignity that every family deserves. We also shared the sobering reality behind the need. In Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools alone, thousands of children are identified as experiencing homelessness, a statistic that underscores how close to home this issue truly is.
Elizabeth outlined the core supports required for housing stability: sufficient income, physical and mental wellness, reliable transportation, access to childcare, financial literacy, and a strong support system. None of these exists in isolation, and families need all of them working together to build lasting stability.
We also spoke about the vital role of case management and the incredible work of CFH’s social workers, who often act as a kind of GPS—helping families navigate complex systems, avoid obstacles, and stay oriented toward their goals. While we acknowledged the many challenges our moms face, we also spent time honoring their resilience, strength, and joy. These women are not defined by their circumstances; they are courageous, determined, and deeply committed to building better futures for their children.
Most of all, this conversation was a reminder of the power of partnership. Christ Church continues to show up—not only for CFH, but for so many organizations serving neighbors experiencing housing instability. Their commitment to learning, listening, and acting is a gift to our community.
The full Faith Forum conversation is available to watch below, and we warmly invite you to take a few moments to view it.
We are grateful beyond words for Christ Church’s partnership and for the ways they live out their faith through compassion, advocacy, and action.
Watch the conversation here: https://christchurchcharlotte.subspla.sh/kq5j8rt
