The Porch Light is On!

On the evening of June 7, 1976, Abby’s House first opened its doors as an overnight shelter. The porch light at 21-23 Crown Street was turned on, symbolizing a beacon of hope, ready to welcome any woman or child in need. Over the years, homelessness continued to rise, and the need for beds became increasingly urgent. Recognizing this, Abby’s House embarked on a mission to expand and modernize its facilities. In 2021, the renovation process began, culminating in a groundbreaking ceremony in 2023. As of June 2024, the renovations at the shelter have been completed.

Abby’s House commemorated this momentous occasion with a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 20, 2024. The renovations brought significant improvements and additions:

• An ADA-accessible bedroom, accommodating a mother and her child, with an ADA bathroom and accessible laundry facilities on the first floor.
• A children’s enrichment room with social-emotional learning tools, games, and activities to support the development and well-being of children.
• A staff bedroom and bathroom for overnight volunteers and staff.
• Meeting spaces to facilitate support services and community activities.
• Two basement apartments designated for dedicated live-in staff, providing on-site support and stability.
• A state-of-the-art bed bug/decontamination room to ensure the health and safety of all residents.
• Increased capacity with more privacy and private rooms for guests, offering a sense of dignity and personal space.
• An expanded kitchen space designed to facilitate community and family meal preparation, fostering a sense of togetherness and communal support.

Reflecting on how these renovations will impact the community, Abby’s House Executive Director Julie Orozco said, “Hardship does not mean that we should exist without dignity and our struggle has no bearing on our worth! This is a foundational belief established by our founders. Every woman and child, regardless of the circumstances, is inherently valuable and as such, deserves the same amount of access as anyone else!”

The improvements at Abby’s House not only enhances the physical space but also reinforces its commitment to dignity and respect. For many, the shelter is more than a place to stay; it is a symbol of hope and renewal.

“Every act of kindness, every gesture of hospitality, every resource we provide, and every moment of support and compassion is a testament to our commitment to fostering dignity and hope,” Chelsea, Director of Women Services at Abby’s House, shared. “This shelter has been and continues to be a cornerstone of that commitment, serving as a safe haven and a launchpad for new beginnings of self-directed lives.”

Senator Robyn Kennedy highlighted the broader societal impact of such efforts. “Every member of our community deserves a dignified place to lay their head at night,” she says, acknowledging the pressing need for more support and resources. “We know that we are at a crisis point and we have so much work to do. And that’s why organizations like Abby’s House are so critical to that work.”

As the ribbon was cut and the renovated shelter officially reopened, there was a palpable sense of renewal and anticipation. Julie looked to the future with optimism. “As new guests move in, new logs will be written, new volunteers and staff members will help with the dishes and daily chores, and most importantly, the timeless spirit of Abby’s House will live on.”

The ceremony concluded with a tour of the new facilities, showcasing the thoughtful enhancements and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that Abby’s House continues to offer. The porch light remains on, a steadfast beacon of hope for those in need.

View more photos from the ribbon cutting ceremony and the renovated shelter at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBw8qA

Renovated Shelter Photos by Joel Howe