Join us for our upcoming event:

Covenant Shelter’s Annual Fundraiser - 2026 Merrill Fontaine Awards Dinner

Celebrate Transformation: The Merrill Fontaine Annual Awards Dinner

Join us for an inspiring evening on May 7, 2026, at the Holiday Inn as we gather to celebrate the power of community and the life-changing impact of our mission. The Merrill Fontaine Annual Awards Dinner is a night dedicated to honoring our history, celebrating the possibility of change, and recognizing the vital support that enables our work as a homeless shelter.

This year, we are proud to recognize two extraordinary leaders who redefine what it means to lead with both heart and strategy. We honor Tricia Cunningham, Executive Director at Always Home, whose 'outside-the-box' approach to preventing homelessness has transformed system-wide expertise into tangible community results. Alongside her, we celebrate Cathy Zall, Executive Director of the New London Homeless Hospitality Center—a visionary leader known for making the impossible happen through passionate advocacy and bold action. Both Tricia and Cathy are more than executives; they are dedicated mentors and fierce advocates who prioritize the dignity of those they serve while inspiring everyone they work with to reach higher.

The evening serves as a tribute to our legacy, named in honor of our founders, Father Merrill of St. James Episcopal Church and Father Fontaine of St. Mary Star of the Sea Church. Their vision of a compassionate, proactive community remains the heartbeat of our organization today. Beyond the awards, this night is an opportunity to share the massive impact your support has made over the past year. We are excited to introduce several new initiatives and celebrate the transformations that your generosity makes possible. We look forward to seeing you there as we celebrate our work, our partners, and the bright future of our community.

Register Now

Continue reading below for additional event information

Event Details

Thursday May 7th, 2026

Date

5:30 - 8:30 PM

Time

NEW LONDON HOLIDAY INN

35 GOVERNOR WINTHROP BLVD

NEW LONDON, CT

Location

  • Parking is onsite and free for event guests

  • Dress: Business Casual

  • Buffet style dinner

  • Silent auction will be held

  • Tree of Hope

  • Cash bar available

  • If you have any additional questions regarding the event, please contact Katherine Hannah at khannah@covenantshelternl.org

Additional Information

Register Now

Sponsorship Levels &
Individual Tickets

Headliner Sponsor - $10,000

The Foundation of Transformation: Turning temporary shelter into permanent change

  • Full-page ad in the event program

  • 1 Table (8 tickets) to the awards dinner

  • Recognition on the Covenant Shelter website and social media platforms

  • Acknowledgment during the event

Beacon of Hope Sponsor - $5,000

Symbolizes guiding light and inspiration for those in need.

  • Full-page ad in the event program

  • 1 Table (8 tickets) to the awards dinner

  • Recognition on the Covenant Shelter website and social media platforms

  • Acknowledgment during the event

Foundation Builder Sponsor - $2,500

Represents creating a strong base for individuals to rebuild their lives.

  • 1 Table (8 tickets) to the awards dinner

  • ½-page ad in the event program

  • Recognition on the Covenant Shelter website and social media platforms

Bridge to Stability Sponsor - $1,000

Highlights the transitional support offered by the shelter.

  • ¼-page ad in the event program

  • 4 tickets to the awards dinner

  • Recognition on the Covenant Shelter website

Heart of the Home Sponsor - $500

Focuses on the compassion and care central to the shelter's mission.

  • Logo recognition in the event program

  • 2 tickets to the awards dinner

  • Recognition on the Covenant Shelter website

Helping Hand - $50-$499

For a little extra help when you need it the most.

  • Name recognition in the event program

  • Recognition on the Covenant Shelter website

Standard Ticket Pricing

  • Individual Ticket: $100

  • Pair of Tickets: $175

Past Events

Below, you can find information from some past events that we’ve hosted.

Boots on the Ground Resource Fair - October 2025

This even was unfortunately postponed due to weather and has not been rescheduled at this current time. Please keep an eye on upcoming events for any updates.

This was a community event planned by Covenant Shelter of New London, Step Up New London, & State Representative Anthony Nolan

Covenant Shelter's Annual Fundraiser & Merrill Fontaine Awards Dinner - May 2025

As the only family shelter in southeastern Connecticut, with open arms to both families and single males, Covenant Shelter is there for those facing homelessness in our community. But we can't do it alone.

This year's event was more than just a fundraiser; it was a chance to connect with compassionate individuals like yourself who share a passion for helping others. Guests had the opportunity to network and be inspired by our guest speaker, Donald Whitehead, from the National Coalition for the Homeless. His insights shed light on the realities of homelessness in America. We also honored Father Mark O'Donnell and Representative Anthony Nolan, two remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to our community. However- the most important part of the evening was you. Your presence isn't just about attending a dinner; it's about joining a movement and creating meaningful change. Those who joined directly supported our mission to provide essential services and a safe place for those experiencing homelessness. Together, we can create a future where everyone has a place to call home. Your generosity makes a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most.