Here's how your donations are making a difference for folks in our community

Each month we will share an impact story highlighting how Covenant Shelter has helped patrons get the help they needed to begin their journey to stable housing. These impact stories are of real families that have been impacted by homelessness who were able to start over and build a new life by your direct contributions.

The Purpose Behind the Work
When I first met this client, he was quiet and reserved, a man with remarkable intelligence and deep insight who, at that time, couldn’t quite see his own worth. He had been volunteering at CCAR for months, showing up consistently and humbly contributing to the recovery community, but something inside him still held back. He was in recovery, yes, but recovery is not just about abstinence. It's about believing in yourself again, and that was the part still taking root.
We talked often. Sometimes about his past. Sometimes about his goals. But mostly, we focused on what it might look like to take the next step forward, not just physically, but emotionally. This client had what I would consider a natural gift in the way he could process, analyze, and formulate complex information and present it in a way that made complete sense to others, but struggled at times to truly believe these things for himself. This is why every time we spoke, I reminded him how capable he is of having the exact life he envisions for himself and truly making a change in this world. He had done the hard work of showing up for others. Now it was time to show up for himself.
Our shelter exists not only to provide a safe place to rest, but to create an environment where people can be seen, heard, and guided back to their own sense of dignity. With this client, that meant helping him recognize what was already within him. It meant speaking to him not just as a case manager, but as someone who understood what it is like to question your own value and still fight to believe there’s more to your story.
After about a month of consistent conversations, check-ins, and mutual trust-building, he made the decision to move into a sober house. It wasn’t a decision made in haste. It was intentional, grounded, and empowered. He told me he felt ready, truly ready. And watching him walk out those doors with a renewed sense of direction reminded me exactly why this work matters.
A few days later, he had left me a letter. In it, he thanked me for believing in him, for seeing him as more than a client, and for reminding him of his worth when he had struggled to see it himself. I carry that letter with me now, not just as a reminder of a job well done, but as proof that the people who come through our shelter are not broken. They are not defined by their past or limited by their circumstances. They are people in the process of rebuilding, rediscovering, and reclaiming their lives.
This client’s story is just one of many. It’s a reminder that shelters aren’t just places
In December 2024, Sally and her two daughters arrived at our shelter, embarking on a challenging journey that would last six to seven months. During this time, Sally faced immense obstacles, including the loss of her significant other and the stability of her family due to addiction. She also navigated her own mental health and addiction issues.
Despite these hardships, Sally demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience. She prioritized her daughters' well-being, ensuring their regular attendance and success in school. With the support of our case management team, Sally navigated complex systems such as SSI and SSDI to secure income, and the child support system. She also worked closely with the Department of Children and Families to ensure her children's safety and maintain open communication about their situation with their father.
Sally and her children actively participated in all available workshops, including yoga, financial literacy, tenant responsibilities, mock interviewing, and resume building. Sally dedicated herself to being a strong and consistent presence for her children, often sacrificing her own needs. She maintained open communication with our staff, providing valuable feedback that helped us improve our services for her family and future shelter guests.
Sally's hard work and perseverance paid off. She now lives with her daughters in their own apartment, with a manageable rent that ensures long-term stability. The day we helped Sally and her children move into their apartment was incredibly moving. Overwhelmed with joy and relief, Sally broke down in tears, finally understanding that she and her children were safe and secure after months and years of living in unstable conditions. We are incredibly proud of Sally and her children for their resilience throughout this journey. To help with the cost and stress of moving, we also provided her with gift cards and items for her new apartment.
Harry's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support. For nearly a year, Harry faced the harsh reality of homelessness. His journey began sometime around June of last year, and during that time, he grappled with the daily struggles of finding shelter and security. Adding to the complexity of his situation, Harry experiences some mental health, which presented challenges in maintaining consistent, full-time employment. Despite these obstacles, he had the advantage of being connected to Social Security disability, providing a foundation for financial stability. While experiencing homelessness, Harry demonstrated remarkable perseverance and an ability to save money. This financial prudence would later prove crucial in his transition to stable housing. The turning point in Harry's story came when he connected with our services. We were able to link Harry with permanent supportive housing, a program designed to provide long-term housing solutions coupled with supportive services for those experiencing mental health. This connection proved to be life-changing, as Harry successfully secured an apartment that aligned with his long-term financial capabilities. Beyond housing, a network of support was essential to Harry's success. We connected him with a range of community resources, including Mental Health Services to address his specific needs and promote overall well-being, Overall, Health Support ensuring access to medical care and promoting physical health, Income Budgeting Assistance providing guidance and tools for managing his finances effectively, and Case Management offering ongoing support, advocacy, and coordination of services. Today, Harry is living independently in his own apartment. He continues to receive case management services from community providers, ensuring that he has ongoing support as he navigates his new chapter. He also maintains contact with Covenant Shelter, a connection that speaks to the relationships he built during his time there and his commitment to staying connected to his support network. Harry's journey from homelessness to independent living is a powerful reminder that with the right support and resources, individuals facing significant challenges can achieve stability and thrive. His story inspires us and reinforces our commitment to providing comprehensive services that empower individuals to overcome homelessness and build brighter futures.
September brought Kevin, a 47-year-old man, to our doors. His story was a stark reminder that homelessness can strike anyone, regardless of their past. For Kevin, it was a sudden and devastating cascade of events that led him from a lifetime of stability to the harsh reality of unsheltered homelessness. Kevin had always worked, a dependable and hardworking man. Then, one day at his job, a sharp pain in his legs and visible swelling caught his boss's attention. A quick trip to the on-site medical team escalated into an emergency hospital visit. The diagnosis was shocking: his blood pressure was dangerously high, and they were surprised he was even conscious. But the worst was yet to come. Kevin was diagnosed with terminal cancer.
His job, recognizing the severity of his illness and the need for extensive treatment, encouraged him to resign. This left Kevin without income or health insurance. He lost his apartment and found himself living in a tent in the woods, battling a terminal illness and the elements. He would make arduous hikes into town for medical appointments, a testament to his sheer will to survive. A temporary reprieve came when a friend offered him shelter in a woodshed in his backyard, but as winter approached, the shed became needed for its intended purpose. Kevin found himself back on the streets. It was at this critical juncture, at the end of September, that he came to Covenant Shelter.
We immediately recognized the urgency of Kevin's situation. Our team sprang into action, assisting him in obtaining necessary documents, applying for state medical insurance, and connecting him with vital medical resources. We coordinated weekly transportation with VEYO and a local dialysis clinic, ensuring he could attend his essential appointments. Understanding the complexity of his medical needs, we worked consistently with our partners at TVCAA to navigate the challenging housing market. We were determined to find Kevin a safe and supportive living situation, one where he wouldn’t be alone.
Our efforts culminated in a remarkable success story. We secured an apartment for Kevin, a shared living space with two other men he had befriended during his time at the shelter. These men, now his friends and chosen family, have committed to providing him with the support and care he needs.Kevin’s story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s resilience and the importance of community. In the face of overwhelming adversity, he found not only shelter, but also friendship, support, and a sense of belonging. At Covenant Shelter, we are honored to have been a part of his journey, helping him find a place of comfort and care during a challenging time.
JG arrived at Covenant Shelter with her children, their belongings fitting into a few small bags. They had little more than the clothes on their backs, and the weight of uncertainty hung heavy in the air. JG was determined to create a better life for her family, but the path ahead seemed daunting. Our team immediately stepped in, recognizing the urgency of their situation. Basic needs were addressed, but the real work began with our housing team. They understood that stability required more than just shelter. They worked tirelessly with JG, helping her navigate the complex process of obtaining essential documents: her ID, birth certificate, and social security card, as well as those for her children. It was a tedious process, but JG’s determination, combined with our team’s expertise, ensured success.
We knew that childcare and food assistance were critical for JG’s ability to move forward. We connected her with our dedicated educator from TVCAA, who helped secure childcare, allowing JG to focus on securing stable employment. We also assisted her in applying for SNAP benefits, ensuring her family had access to nutritious food. With the foundational support in place, JG focused on finding employment. Her resilience paid off, and she soon secured a stable job. Meanwhile, our housing team began the crucial task of navigating the apartment application process. They worked closely with JG, helping her understand the requirements, prepare her application, and communicate effectively with landlords. The timing couldn’t have been more challenging. Christmas was just days away, and JG was still waiting for her apartment inspection. The anticipation was palpable. Then, just two days before Christmas, the news arrived: the apartment passed inspection! It was a Christmas miracle.
But our support didn't stop there. We wanted to ensure JG and her children had a truly special holiday. We provided a bed and some essential furniture to make their new apartment feel like home. And, thanks to the generosity of our donors, we were able to provide gifts for both JG and her children, bringing joy and warmth to their first Christmas in their new home.
JG’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and community support. From arriving with nothing to celebrating Christmas in their own apartment, JG and her children's journey is just one success story here At Covenant Shelter. We are honored to have played a part in their success, and we celebrate their remarkable transformation.
From Despair to Dignity: A Family's Journey to Home
Covenant Shelter is more than just a shelter; it's a space of hope, a place where lives are transformed. One such story is that of Nick, a man who arrived at our doors with his 15-year-old daughter, Nancy, during a dark period in their lives.
Faced with homelessness and uncertainty, Nick found himself at a crossroads. But with unwavering determination and the support of our dedicated staff and our partners at TVCCA, he began to rebuild his life. Our housing team and support staff worked to assist him in securing full-time employment, acquiring essential identification documents, and navigating the complex process of applying for housing assistance.
Throughout this journey, Nancy remained a source of strength and resilience. Despite the challenges of homelessness, she continued her education, attending school regularly and maintaining healthy friendships. Our generous board members made significant donations at the start of the school year, ensuring that she had everything she needed to succeed and feel prepared.
The path to stable housing was not without its obstacles. Housing vouchers were delayed, and there were moments of frustration and doubt. Yet, Nick persevered, demonstrating remarkable patience and determination in an otherwise harsh reality of housing. His commitment to providing a better future for his daughter fueled his efforts.
Finally, after months of hard work and perseverance, Nick and Nancy were able to secure a two-bedroom apartment. This was a HUGE step and a testament to the power of hope, resilience, and the unwavering support of our community.
Today, Nick and Nancy are thriving in their new home. They have a place to call their own, a place where they can build a brighter future. Their story is a reminder that with the right support and resources and some faith and consistency that individuals can overcome adversity and achieve their dreams.
Covenant Shelter of New London is proud to have played a role in this family's journey. We remain committed to helping others in need, providing a pathway to stability, and empowering individuals to rebuild their lives.
Gemma Moran recently played a role in reuniting a young mother with her son and their father. After facing challenges in finding affordable housing, despite having a voucher, the woman was at risk of losing her job and unable to find a unit for her and her family to live in despite being connected to a program that supports housing search.
Our housing staff worked tirelessly with the mother to develop a realistic budget and explore various housing options. Through partnerships with community organizations and our ECAN, we successfully secured a two-bedroom apartment that could accommodate the entire family and the mother, son and father were reunited.
During the 77 days she was in our program, the mother received support in finding employment and accessing essential services like transportation and healthcare. She also expressed immense gratitude for the regular snacks and whole milk we provided for her son.
Thanks to our partnership with Gemma Moran, we were able to offer consistent food access to our guests, ensuring that their basic needs were met. This support played a crucial role in helping the mother and her family navigate a challenging time and ultimately achieve their goal of reunification.
Matt's journey to a stable home was a long and challenging one. After experiencing homelessness and struggling with substance abuse for many years, he found himself at Covenant Shelter in January 2024.
Our housing staff immediately began working with Matt to prepare him for permanent housing. They helped him gather necessary documentation and create a realistic budget based on his fixed income. With the support of the CHESS program in collaboration with CSNL, Matt applied to numerous apartments, despite facing repeated setbacks. He was placed on waitlists starting in March 2024 and by Mid- June was on 3 major waiting lists for an apartment.
Throughout this process, our Housing Manager recognized that Matt could benefit from additional mental health support and through her skills and conversation was able to get Matt to self-identify that he needed/wanted treatment. Because of this Matt took ownership of this process. Through our partnerships, we connected Matt with Sound Community Services, where he began receiving regular therapy and participating in community groups.
After 237 days, Matt's perseverance paid off. Despite a minor stroke in late August, he secured his own apartment in New London and was discharged from CSNL at the beginning of September 2024. His new home provides him with a stable living environment where he can continue his mental health services and maintain the valuable friendships he has formed. It should also be noted that Matt eventually received housing through our partners at Homeless Hospitality Center of New London at one of their off-site Permanent Supportive Housing apartments.
When The Warrenton’s arrived at our shelter, they were facing a daunting reality: homelessness. A family with a young child in tow and two others in a different state, they were overwhelmed by the challenges of finding stable housing and meeting their basic needs. But their story is a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative impact of our Housing First initiative in the State of CT and in our New London CAN. ( Coordinated Access Network)
Within just six weeks of entering our shelter, we were able to help them secure an apartment and get the security deposit and rent paid for. There were only 4 units available across our southeastern region available. This remarkable turnaround was made possible through the coordinated efforts of our team and our network of partners. Shout out to the team at TVCCA ( Thames Valley Community Council for Action). By leveraging our Coordinated Access Network, we swiftly assessed the family's needs and identified appropriate resources.
Recognizing the urgency of their situation, we worked closely with TVCCA and the landlord to expedite the move-in process. Despite facing funding delays, we were determined to provide this family with a stable home without further delay. Through strategic negotiations and advocacy, we secured a security deposit and rent assistance to support the family for up to six months.
This housing stability was a pivotal turning point. It enabled Patty to reunite with her two other children, creating a complete and loving family unit. To ensure long-term success, we connected the family to essential state-provided services and wraparound support programs tailored to their needs. This includes mental health services for the parents and educational and developmental support for the children.
The Warrenton’s journey is a powerful example of how our Housing First approach can rapidly transform lives. By providing immediate access to housing and comprehensive support services, we are breaking the cycle of homelessness and empowering families to build brighter futures.
“ thank you so much, your team in heaven sent. THANK YOU for the help and lack of judgement. Your staff is amazing”
In Mid- September 2023, a young family found themselves at a crossroads. With two small children and another on the way, they were asked to leave their temporary stay with friends. Desperate and unsure where to turn, they reached out to 211, a lifeline that connected them to our shelter.
By September 27th, our shelter opened its doors to this family of four (soon to be five). They arrived with little more than hope. Neither parent was employed, and the weight of uncertainty hung heavy on their shoulders.
From day one, our dedicated housing staff and partner agencies worked tirelessly alongside the family. Together, they navigated the complex process of securing stable housing. In November, amidst their struggles, the family welcomed their newborn - a moment of joy in a time of struggle.
Understanding that parenting support was crucial, we connected the family with Early HeadStart. This partnership provided invaluable guidance during a critical time. Simultaneously, the father's persistence paid off as he secured a part-time job - a small but significant step towards self-sufficiency.
Through the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program’s (YHDP) Rapid Rehousing initiative, we were able to help the family find a home in Norwich. On December 15, 2023, they stepped into their new apartment - a place to call their own after months of uncertainty.
To make their house a home, they needed furnishings. When the family shared that they had only plastic chairs and children's beds, our community sprang into action. Thanks to the generosity of our partners and donors, we provided the family with a proper bed and frame, along with a dining room set - small comforts that made a world of difference.
The story doesn't end there. Both parents have since found full-time employment. The father now works within walking distance of their home, while the mother has secured a position at Mohegan Sun. Their youngest child is receiving specialized care through Birth to Three services, and the family has been awarded a Section 8 housing voucher, further solidifying their housing security.
Today, this family of five is thriving. Their journey from homelessness to stability is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together.
This success story was made possible by the collective efforts of our dedicated staff, partner agencies, and generous donors.