HCN Announces: The Jabali Awareness & Education Campaign

Dear Beloveds,

In our community, the struggles faced by children, youth, and families are often hidden in plain sight, overshadowed by silence and stigma. Among these challenges, the crisis of substance use disorder (SUD) has left profound ripples—fracturing connections, stealing futures, and deepening systemic inequities that disproportionately impact Black and African American communities.

At Homeless Children’s Network, we believe in the power of shared stories, collective action, and unwavering hope. Today, I am honored to announce the launch of our Jabali Substance Use  Awareness and Education Campaign—an initiative rooted in awareness, prevention, and the profound belief in the resilience of our community.

Over the coming months, you will hear heartfelt and courageous stories from those who have been touched by the effects of substance use—the lived experiences of individuals fighting for dignity and healing, youth who are boldly advocating for brighter futures, and voices from San Francisco calling for hope and restoration for their friends and loved ones. These voices remind us that this is not just about statistics; it is about humanity, compassion, and the determination to create a better path forward.

This campaign is about building awareness, sparking conversations, and empowering our community with knowledge and tools to make a difference. Together, we aim to:

SHINE A LIGHT ON THE REALITIES OF SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER AND ITS IMPACTS ON OUR COMMUNITIES.

AMPLIFY THE VOICES OF YOUTH ADVOCATING FOR POSITIVE CHANGE.

PROVIDE RESOURCES AND EDUCATION THAT INSPIRE PREVENTION AND RESILIENCE.

ENCOURAGE COLLECTIVE ACTION AND SOLIDARITY TO ADDRESS THIS PRESSING ISSUE.

As we embark on this journey, I am reminded of the power of our shared commitment. “What makes a dream possible? It’s the Visionary who has set aflame our collective imagination.” Each of us holds the potential to be that visionary—to ignite hope, to inspire change, and to ensure that every child, every youth, and every family feels seen, heard, and supported.

I ask you to stand with us by taking a pledge to raise awareness and promote education about the profound impact of substance use disorders in our community. Your pledge is more than just a commitment—it is a promise to help create a world where every person, especially our children and families, feels seen, heard, and supported.

Visit our Jabali Awareness and Education Campaign Page to take the pledge today and stay informed on new resources, campaign updates, and ways you can make a difference.

Together, we can empower one another to break the silence, foster understanding, and support those who need it most. In community, we find healing and with our collective strength, we have the power to write our own stories—stories of dignity, support, and a future where no one is left behind.

Your role in this mission matters deeply. Whether you share our stories, engage in dialogue, or simply stand with us in solidarity, your presence is a beacon of hope. Thank you for believing in the possibility of a brighter tomorrow and for walking alongside us in this vital work.

With heartfelt gratitude and unwavering hope,

Dr. April Y Silas 

CEO, Homeless Children’s Network