Every Tuesday morning, a group of Indwell tenants hits the trails, parks, and riverbanks of Norfolk County to clean up litter and give back to the community that helped them find stability.
The initiative, Community Matters, was inspired by tenant interest in community service, the program reflects Indwell’s core values of dignity, love, and hope. Indwell is a Christian charity that creates affordable housing communities supporting health, wellness, and belonging. Program Manager Shelby Vosburgh says the weekly cleanups are a natural extension of their mission.
Tenants like Jesse St. John, say giving back to Norfolk is deeply personal.
John Stroud, who once experienced homelessness, now participates weekly.
They added that the public’s response has been encouraging, with residents smiling, waving, and stopping to thank them. St. John says he has even got a honk or two.
The team collects about seven bags of litter each outing—everything from food waste and shopping carts to hazardous materials like used needles. Ethan Sargent with environmental services at Indwell ensures everyone is staying safe while they’re out cleaning up.
Additionally, everyone on the team wears bright green Community Matters shirts for safety and visibility.
The program currently includes eight tenants from two Indwell locations and welcomes community input on areas needing attention. They also encourage visitors to tour their buildings at 203 John Street or 41 Norfolk Street to learn more.
“We couldn’t do this without community partners,” said Vosburgh. “This is how real, lasting change happens—together.”
Written by Jeremy Hall