Poetry with a Purpose brings the healing power of poetry into women's shelters, homeless shelters and recovery centers. We provide dynamic creative writing classes and present inspiring poetry readings and spoken word performances inside the different facilities. Our poets can also set up vintage typewriters at the shelters and shelter fundraising events and create and distribute edifying poems - spreading light and love through the poetic word.
Poetry with a Purpose has been presented at...
Camillus House, Miami
Women in Distress, South Florida
Lotus House, Miami
Tabitha House, Greensboro, NC
Galt Ocean Rehab, Fort Lauderdale, FL
The Edge Recovery Center, Coral Springs FL
"With regard to the impact of the poetry sessions offered by Marie Whitman here at Women In Distress, I can tell you that our group size grew from 3 Participants the first week, to 10 by the second session. Participant’s, who initially appeared reluctant to share their poetic thoughts, were encouraged. I witnessed smiles, tears and laughter among those sharing their own words, maybe for the first time, and also by those moved by what they had heard. I believe our Participants are in the process of discovering the power of their own thoughts, words & voices."
-- Lynn Waite, Therapist, Women in Distress Organization
Poetry with a Purpose was able to present an inspiring evening performance of poetry and dance for the residents, staff and clients of Women In Distress Shelter. Many thanks to consummate artist, Ana Bolt-Turrall for her dedication and donation of her time and artistry to work with Marie Whitman on this performance. Click on gallery photos to enlarge...
Creative writing classes at Camillus House Shelter in Miami. Oftentimes, participants came in from nights of being on the street with a desire and willingness to share their hearts on paper.
Poets, Marie Whitman and Sergio Mora creating and distributing poems on Thanksgiving at Broward Outreach Center.