For more than two decades, Home for Healing has offered reprieve to parents of NICU infants as well as individuals undergoing cancer treatment and their caregivers. Providing convenient and no-cost accommodations in a peaceful + restorative environment in the heart of the Capital City, Home for Healing is a beacon of hope during a journey back to wellness. Maintenance and operation of the facility are reliant on community support. Executive Director Kristin Trulock elaborates, “We run 100 percent on donations, grants and sponsors. It takes more than $500,000 annually just to house our guests.” Proceeds from Monster Bash supplement these expenses. This year, Cheryl Payne, M.D., and Morgan Gary, P.A., welcomed more than 500 guests to the largest costume party in Arkansas. This dynamic mother-daughter duo realize the impact Home for Healing makes for families across the state.
As radiation oncology medical professionals for CARTI, Dr. Payne and her daughter Morgan provide compassionate care coupled with new technology and a holistic philosophy to patients. They also volunteer at Home for Healing and believe removing obstacles is critical during treatment. “If one of our guests needs groceries, volunteers get them groceries,” Morgan explains. “Whatever the need, we work to meet it. Maybe it’s gift cards to restaurants, a cell phone so they can stay in communication with loved ones or diapers for their kids. Regardless, we know not having to worry about these things is essential to focusing energy to getting better.”
The comprehensive approach to hospitality at Home for Healing provides caregivers and patients resources to help them heal. “We are really focused on meeting the whole needs of our guests. We appreciate volunteers like Cheryl and Morgan who are a soothing presence for our guests,” Kristin notes. “All of the proceeds from Monster Bash stay in Central Arkansas at Home for Healing to help our guests who are underinsured or uninsured and are in financial need.” Since its inception in 2003, Home for Healing has served more than 6,000 patients and families. Although many are from Arkansas, others come to the state to be treated at area medical centers. “If you can care for yourself during treatment, you do not have to have a caregiver. That is one thing that sets us apart. Another is we work with people who are unhoused. They may think they have no resources to assist them with treatment, but all we need is contact with their doctor to start the process with a social worker. The fact that all our guests can stay here without worrying about money, food, care, transportation and a host of other needs helps their healing process.”
Dr. Payne is impressed with not only the quality of the accommodations, but the added amenities that bring well-being into the space. Home for Healing boasts 14,000 square feet with two guest wings complete with 15 bedrooms + bathrooms as well as kitchen areas and laundry rooms. She explains, “There is also an office, conference room, meditation area, manager’s apartment and a beautiful garden where our guests can sit, relax and feel a little peace.”
HOME FOR HEALING