This past winter, Hands On Hartford (HOH) launched a critical Cold Weather Program with support from our community partner, Journey Home. From early January through early April 2025, we provided safe, temporary housing at the Travel Inn Motel, Hartford, for unsheltered individuals—prioritizing those over 50 and those with chronic health or mobility challenges.

Over the course of the season, 16 individuals found not just shelter, but also support and connection. Led by Stephanie Boyce, Director of Homeless Prevention, Outreach & Food Access Programs (pictured above), our Outreach team and other HOH staff were on-site daily to provide case management, connect participants to medical care, and help them work toward stable housing.

Guests were welcomed with daily snacks and enjoyed hot meals Monday through Thursday, thanks to our Gather55 Day Restaurant—offering both nourishment and a sense of dignity during the harshest months.

Stephanie shared a powerful story that illustrates the impact of this work:

“Late on a Friday in February, our Outreach team connected with a man who had just been forced to leave his encampment. We brought him into the program that evening. By Monday, staff saw a remarkable change—he looked rested, hopeful. During his stay, he engaged with us every day and was ultimately able to enter an outpatient treatment program for substance use.”

Stephanie added, “Every single participant expressed gratitude to our on-site staff. Many said they didn’t believe they would have survived the winter outdoors without this program.”

This initiative is a testament to the life-changing power of compassion, collaboration, and community.