The Heart and Home Collaborative’s Board sent this letter, along with several notes written by guests (reproduced here):
Heart and Home Collaborative’s women’s cold weather shelter wrapped up its 2024–25 shelter season on March 31, and we just want to say thank you.
Because your community opened its doors, women had a safe place to come inside — not only to eat, rest, and just catch their breath, but also to feel safe, welcome, and cared for. UUCPA provided 338 nights of shelter, supporting 24 women across those nights. It matters more than we can say, and we’ve attached some thank you cards from the women below.
This season, 53 individuals went above and beyond to make shelter run in your community — bringing meals, showing up with care, or just being present. We’d especially like to thank you for allowing us to stay for a full six weeks. The consistency and care makes a real difference.
When we asked the women staying at UUCPA what stood out, here’s what we heard:
Again and again, the women told us how welcoming and peaceful it felt to be at UUCPA. The whole UUCPA community showed up with thoughtfulness and care. From warm greetings to checking in on how guests were doing, the women mentioned again and again how intentional and caring the community was. They noted that Edie, in particular, was such a steady presence — always helpful, and incredibly kind. Her presence and support meant a lot throughout our time here.
Thank you for everything — for sharing your space, for being flexible, and for helping us carry this work forward. We’re so grateful for your community, and we hope to continue our relationship next season.
With appreciation and gratitude,
The Heart and Home Board