Tonya's House

The Salem Academy girls basketball team generously donated cash and much-needed items to Tonya’s House March 4, 2010, during the team’s visit to Pendleton for the state 2A basketball tournament.

The team and their coach, Rene Houle, dropped off a $70 check, two $100 gift cards, clothes, hygiene products, pillows, towels, sheets, and more at Tonya’s House on March 4, said Tonya’s House Director Sondra Kerby.

The Tonya’s House Board of Directors is very appreciative of the team’s donation and for their thoughtfulness in selecting Tonya’s House for their generosity.

“Not only are these girls wonderful athletes, but they have wonderful hearts,” said Tonya’s House Board Chairman Chris Burford. “The Board of Directors, our house director and the girls in Tonya’s House really appreciate the generosity from Salem Academy.”

Tonya’s House depends on numerous donations throughout the year from the community, including in-kind donations, household items, toiletries and other essentials, along with cash donations.

Tonya’s House provides a home and services for homeless and at-risk teenage girls. Tonya’s House creates an environment where these girls can focus on their educations, life skills, health care and reuniting with their families. The organization coordinates with a variety of local service providers to develop treatment programs and life skills training for residents. The organization was founded by ElRae Wells in 2001, and now has funding support from Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc. Tonya’s House also relies upon grants and donations from the local community.

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