A Snowstorm, a Pajama Party, and a Whole Lot of Heart

When this issue reaches you, the bitter cold and swirling snow of winter may already feel like a distant memory. Still, the major storm that struck on January 24–25 offered a powerful reminder of how Homewood Living Williamsport’s employees go above and beyond to ensure residents remain safe, supported, and cared for—no matter the forecast.

With predictions calling for more than a foot of snow, Williamsport’s leadership immediately set to work preparing for seamless coverage throughout the storm. Meetings were held and memos sent to map out staffing strategies and ensure that residents would never have to worry about services or safety. For co-workers living in mountainous or hard-to-reach areas, lodging on campus was offered so they could avoid dangerous travel.

The response was overwhelmingly positive. Department heads led by example, arriving with bedrolls in hand and settling in for the duration. Guest Quarters and model units became temporary living spaces, and one co-worker claimed their “usual spot” on the couch in the Community Center Library. Another resourceful co-worker tucked an air mattress into a small workroom, creating a quiet hideaway so comfortable they stayed three nights, joking, “I knew my neighborhood wouldn’t get plowed, so it was just as well to stay here.”

Across campus, similar stories unfolded. At Hilltop Assisted Living, director Beverly Dolby transformed an empty apartment into a makeshift dormitory outfitted with air mattresses, snacks, and a television. Six employees shared the space, and the unexpected closeness proved to be a gift. Dolby reported that team members who had experienced friction beforehand gained a new understanding of one another. “Some of my employees thanked me for the opportunity the weekend provided. I couldn’t have been prouder of my team. They didn’t miss a beat,” she said.

At the Health Care Center, staffing coordinator Kim DeShong spent the entire weekend onsite with thirteen nurses, GNAs, and med techs. Together, they worked extra shifts to ensure their vulnerable residents received continuous care.

In Housekeeping and Laundry, newly appointed director Crystal Montano and housekeeper Rita Norris stayed overnight from the very start of the storm. Norris even worked ahead on Sunday night in case others couldn’t make it in. Thanks to the dedication of the entire team, all thirteen staff members reported for duty on both Sunday and Monday—no small achievement under the circumstances.

Meals still had to be prepared, and Dietary Services rose to the occasion. Alongside their department director, two others planned for overnighting. In yet another show of dedication, all other scheduled staffers made sure they arrived on Sunday to keep everyone fed. They produced and served 800 daily meals also provided meals for about 50 additional co-workers who were going the extra mile.

Even as the campus hummed with activity indoors, the Maintenance and Grounds staff were hard at work outside. Facilities director Earl Moyer says ever since the year we had four feet of snow; the team has adjusted and is now a well-oiled machine. Contractors handle major roads, large parking areas, and start on sidewalks. The in-house team—just seven men strong—took on the miles of sidewalks and crosswalks. In less than 24 hours, they had cleared and salted campus pathways, and their efforts continued for several days as they unearthed residents’ cars and moved snow piles to open more parking. “Between preparation and carefully scheduled shifts, we’ve got it down to such a science that no one has to even spend the night anymore,” said Moyer.

It should be noted that this was not a one-time occurrence nor is it unique to Williamsport. Any time our communities are faced with a staffing challenge, Homewood Living communities step up with the same cooperative spirit and unwavering commitment. One might say that co-workers know this is expected when they come on board, but what makes it special is the prevailing sense of cooperation and appreciation of sharing a unique mission and experience.

Compassion, one of Homewood Living Ministries’ core values, has an interesting twist to its definition. It is not only being kind, friendly, generous, or considerate. Compassion involves a deeper emotional connection and desire to alleviate others’ suffering. It is what our co-workers strive for in easy and difficult times.

This storm showcased not just preparedness, but the deep commitment of our staff to one another and to our mission. And really, is anyone ever too old for a pajama party?