Collections bby Michelle Brown WSG Deb Drennan, Exec. Director Freedom House

Deb Drennan is the Executive Director of Freedom House Detroit. Freedom House is a temporary home for survivors of persecution from around the world seeking asylum in the United States and Canada. Its mission is to uphold a fundamental American principle, one inscribed on the bas of the Statue of Liberty, providing safety for those “yearning to breathe free.”  
During this holiday season, we often reflect upon the Holy Family at Bethlehem. They were poor and affected by various political realities—just as many around the world are today. Joseph and Mary had to leave their home in Nazareth and journey to Bethlehem to escape persecution and possible death had they stayed in Nazareth. There, in a poor stable, Mary gave birth to her child.
At a time when many are hearing the echo of “no room in the inn.” Freedom House offers compassion and assistance to those suffering and seeking asylum.

Deb Drennan joined the agency in 2006 as program director and has been Executive Director in 2009. She has more than 30 years of nonprofit experience. Prior to joining Freedom House, she worked with Women ARISE and the Coalition on Temporary Shelter in Detroit.

Asylum seekers sometimes spend nine months or more at Freedom House while their case is heard. The organization provides not only housing, clothing and food but also legal assistance, and help finding work and permanent housing when they have been granted asylum.