May 2024 Newsletter

One Fine Day Luncheon Happening Soon!

Join us for our "One Fine Day" fundraising event on June 12th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM at the elegant Prime at Saratoga National. This delightful afternoon will feature delicious plated lunches, exclusive shopping opportunities from Lifestyles of Saratoga, a silent auction, and heartfelt stories from one of our shelter guests. We are also excited to honor the Elks Lodge of Saratoga-Wilton as our Hope Honoree for their outstanding contributions to our organization. Don't miss this opportunity to support our mission while enjoying a wonderful day out. Reserve your spot today and help us make a difference in our community!

Winter Wrap-up: Reflecting on the Impact of Our Code Blue Shelter

Our Code Blue Shelter has concluded its 2023-24 season, successfully housing 30 individuals and transitioning 26 to interim services. This shelter season marked Code Blue's 10th year of providing critical services during inclement winter weather, as mandated by New York State Emergency Measures for the Homeless.

Season Highlights:

• Total guests sheltered: 299
• Meals served: 11,560
• Nights of operation: 171
• Volunteers: 312 hours contributed

The shelter, located at 120 South Broadway, will reopen in October 2024. In the off-season, alternate services are available at Shelters of Saratoga’s emergency shelter and RISE’s low-barrier shelter.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thank to all our partners for their continued support in our mission to provide shelter and aid to those in need. A special thank you to Saratoga County Department of Social Services, the local community volunteers, our dinner donors, and local businesses who have been integral to our operations.

Guest Story: Meet Jamie!

In our shelter, we don’t just provide a safe place to sleep—we offer a fresh start. One of the many who have found refuge and hope within our walls is Jamie. Jamie’s journey to our shelter began in the aftermath of a domestic violence situation, a harsh reality that forced her to leave behind not just her home but also her sense of security. At our shelter, Jamie found immediate safety—a crucial first step on her path to recovery and independence.

Read her full story on our blog!

Our Executive Director, Duane, was recently a guest on The Saratoga Podcast. In the episode, Robin, Adam, Dan, and Duane delved into the challenges and potential solutions for homelessness in Saratoga County. This enlightening conversation covered the growing need for comprehensive services, including affordable housing and transportation, and the community's role in supporting these initiatives.

We invite you to listen to the full episode on our channel. Don't miss out on this important discussion—tune in today!

As part of our ongoing commitment to assist individuals moving from our Emergency Shelter into supportive housing, we are thrilled to offer a new donation option—Welcome Home Kits. These kits are thoughtfully assembled with essential household items such as a toilet brush, toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, dish soap, sponges, and more, providing the basics needed to start a new chapter of independent living. Your contribution can make a tangible difference in the lives of those taking this significant step. Consider donating a Welcome Home Kit today and help create a welcoming space for our new neighbors!

In our latest community outreach effort, our Director of Development, Rosemary, had the privilege of speaking with Ms. Mullin-Phalen's 10th grade English classes at Saratoga Springs High School about homelessness in our community. Together, with insights from Officer Barrett of the Saratoga Springs Police Department, they explored the complex realities and evolving dynamics of homelessness in our community. Read the full story on our blog to discover more about this inspiring engagement and learn how you can support our mission.