October 2025 Newsletter

 

Staff Spotlight: Carrie Ann Myers

When you meet Carrie Ann Myers, her compassion and calm presence immediately stand out. Since joining Shelters of Saratoga in early September, she has brought both professional expertise and deeply personal insight to her role as Case Manager — helping guests feel supported, understood, and never alone on their journey toward stability.

Carrie Ann holds a degree in Human Services and Health & Wellness Coaching witwh a focus in Culinary Arts. Before joining Shelters of Saratoga, she worked at the Mechanicville Area Community Services Center and Conifer Park, an Addiction Treatment facility, as an Alcohol Case Manager. A meditation instructor and Reiki practitioner, she brings a holistic, compassionate approach to her work.

Now 32 years in recovery, Carrie Ann draws strength from her own journey. “I know what it’s like to feel hopeless and to rise back up,” she shared. “That lived experience helps me connect in a way books can’t.”

Carrie Ann embodies our belief in peer-led support — helping guests rebuild confidence, stability, and self-sustainability. “The shelter isn’t just a place to stay,” she said. “It’s a place of possibility, where no one has to face it alone.”

 

A Place to Call Home: Our Newly Renovated and Expanded Emergency Shelter

On September 16th, we unveiled our newly renovated and expanded Emergency Shelter, designed to provide not just a bed, but a true home for people facing homelessness. Every area of the shelter is fully accessible, including common spaces, kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas, and improved bedrooms, ensuring comfort and dignity for all guests.

A safe, welcoming home is more than shelter—it’s the foundation for support, care, and the tools needed to get back on one’s feet. With spaces thoughtfully designed for both privacy and community, guests can access essential services, compassionate guidance, and wraparound care in an environment that fosters stability.

We believe everyone deserves dignity, care, and compassion. Our enhanced shelter gives guests the safe, supportive environment they need to regain independence, work toward self-sufficiency, and start a new chapter in their lives — a home where hope, healing, and opportunity flourish.

Bedroom 14 Walworth St.

Reception 14 Walworth St.

Living Area 14 Walworth St.

Kitchen 14 Walworth St.

Kitchen 20 Walworth St.

Living Room 20 Walworth St.

Laundry Area 20 Walworth St.

 
In Case You Missed It!

Our Emergency Shelter Ribbon Cutting Ceremony brought together supporters, neighbors, and community members to celebrate!  ABC News10 captured the excitement—watch the video to see community in action.

 

TOGETHERHOOD: Making a Difference in our Community

Once again, the Saratoga Regional YMCA's TOGETHERHOOD program chose Shelters of Saratoga as a partner. TOGETHERHOOD is the Y's signature program for its commitment to Social Responsibility.  Last year, the Food and Hygiene Drive filled two SUVs with donated supplies delivered directly to Shelters of Saratoga—showcasing the YMCA community’s generosity.

Members can continue the tradition this year by dropping off supplies at the Saratoga, Wilton, or Malta YMCA locations—or by shopping and shipping from our Amazon Wish List.

 

Target Circle Community Giving

We're thrilled to share that we've been selected to participate in a special charitable giving campaign sponsored by Target!

Now through December 31st, you can help us receive a portion of Target’s donation by voting for us through the Target Circle program.

Every vote matters and helps support our mission to transform the lives of our neighbors facing homelessness with supportive services, safe shelter, and a path to independence. As you earn more votes, you can keep voting multiple times during the campaign!

Thank you for your support—please share and spread the word, and don’t forget to thank Target on social media!

 

Leadership Update

We are pleased to share that Stephanie Romeo has stepped into the role of Interim Executive Director following the departure of Duane Vaughn. Stephanie has been a dedicated member of the Shelters of Saratoga team for the past seven years, and we are excited to see her leadership guide us through this transition. Please join us in congratulating Stephanie on this new chapter.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Duane for his years of service and contributions to Shelters of Saratoga. His commitment and dedication to our mission have strengthened our work, and we share our sincere appreciation as he continues on his path.

 

Many Ways To Give

Monthly Donor

Donate Goods

Welcome Home Kit

Your contribution transforms the lives of people facing homelessness through supportive services, safe shelter, and a path to independence.

There are many ways to make a difference:

  • Donate Goods: Provide everyday essentials or help create a Welcome Home Kit filled with the basics someone needs to start fresh in stable housing.

  • Give Monthly: One of the most powerful ways to support Shelters of Saratoga is through a monthly donation. It’s simple to set up, fits easily into most budgets, and provides steady, reliable support all year long.

Every action—big or small—helps ensure that our neighbors have the shelter, care, and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives.

 

Myths Hurt.  Facts Help.

Replacing misinformation with truth, compassion, and data-driven solutions. 

We've teamed up with area agency members of the Saratoga North Country Continuum of Care (SNC523) to launch an educational campaign to combat commo myths we hear about those facing homelessness.

Follow our socials to make a difference.

https://www.facebook.com/SheltersofSaratoga/

Join us and make a difference.

 www.snc523.org

 

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Our work would not be possible without the generosity of volunteers. From welcoming guests at the Emergency Shelter to providing support during Code Blue, volunteers are the heart of our mission. They offer more than time—they provide compassion, dignity, and connection for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

We invite you to get involved:

  • Emergency Shelter: Help create a safe, supportive environment year-round.

  • Code Blue: Join our wait list now to be part of our seasonal response team when the cold weather arrives.

Your involvement ensures that every guest feels seen, supported, and cared for. Together, we can make a direct and lasting difference in people’s lives.

 
 
 
 


PO Box 3089  | Saratoga Springs, New York 12866
(518) 581-1097 | info@sheltersofsaratoga.org

Follow Your Impact on Social Media

Having trouble viewing this email? View it in your web browser

Unsubscribe or Manage Your Preferences