Tag: shelter

“I lost my job” – Unhoused Seniors

Posted on by Beth

“I lost my job because I am 60 with diabetes.

I got laid off due to the pandemic,

and my job never took me back on.”

– a Naomi Shelter Guest

For over 30 years, Cornerstone Community Outreach has welcomed unhoused neighbors of all ages into safe, supportive shelter. The doors swing wide for everyone, from families with newborns to senior citizens and all ages in between. The post below will focus on persons 51 years old and over who have found shelter at CCO in 2021 & 2022.

In 2021 – 2022, in the CCO Naomi Shelters, 187 people (40%) of guests were ages 51 and older. Nationally, the number of unhoused older adults continues to rise.

Many factors play a role in the “graying of homelessness.” The death of a spouse or family member with whom the guest shared a dwelling and costs is one cause. The emotional and financial toll of loss reduces the likelihood of maintaining housing. It’s harder to pay the bills alone. For those walking a financial tightrope, the results can be catastrophic.

Other guests indicated job loss, age discrimination at job interviews, behavioral healthcare issues, and chronic physical health challenges or a combination of these as primary factors. Age discrimination blocks guests from getting and maintaining a job. Employers often hire newer, younger employees who receive lower wages. Shelter guests who have worked blue-collar jobs often have the added issue of declining health due to decades of physically demanding work. Among the guests at the Naomi Women’s Shelter, several women over 50 with university degrees and years of work experience struggle to find employment.

Systemic issues contribute to the rise in older adults experiencing homelessness. A few of these factors are weak safety nets, incarceration, an increasing lack of affordable housing, and the end of COVID assistance.

Remaining in housing is a growing challenge for older adults. Senior citizens receiving Social Security face rising rental costs on a fixed income. A seemingly small financial issue can force someone from their housing. Compelled to choose between prescription medication, food, utilities, or transportation, low-income adults struggle to make ends meet. Loss, medical issues, or a behavioral health crisis can disrupt the fine line that keeps older Americans housed. When this balance shifts, homelessness can ensue.

Since the pandemic, unhoused seniors face longer subsidized housing wait lists and stricter protocols. The circumstances point to the need for shelter and services for those who lose housing and accessible subsidized housing to keep homelessness from recurring.

Remaining in stable housing is an increasing concern for older adults, particularly as they grapple with rising living costs. Many seniors on fixed incomes, such as those relying on Social Security, find themselves squeezed by escalating rental prices. Some have even turned to alternative sources of income, including exploring the best crypto casinos, as a way to potentially supplement their budgets. However, even a minor financial setback can jeopardize their housing stability. Compelled to make difficult choices between essential needs—like prescription medications, food, utilities, or transportation—many low-income seniors are at risk of losing their homes. This precarious situation can quickly spiral into homelessness, especially when health issues or personal crises disrupt their already fragile balance.

In this challenging landscape, fast home buyers have emerged as a potential solution for seniors needing to sell their homes quickly. For those facing financial hardship, selling their property can provide immediate relief and a means to secure more affordable housing options. Unfortunately, since the pandemic, unhoused seniors have encountered longer wait times for subsidized housing and stricter eligibility criteria, further complicating their path to stability. The urgent need for accessible shelter and services is clear, as these resources play a critical role in preventing homelessness and supporting older adults in maintaining their dignity and independence.

As the challenges of maintaining housing for older adults grow, the need for stable and affordable housing options becomes more pressing. Families seeking to provide secure living conditions for their elderly members often find themselves grappling with high rental costs and limited availability. One solution to this growing concern is exploring real estate opportunities that cater to the needs of families and seniors alike. Websites like exprealty.com/us/fl/orlando/ offer a variety of housing options in Orlando, helping families find suitable and affordable homes that can accommodate the needs of their aging relatives.

Older single adults need a place to recover from the destructive effects of poverty and homelessness. Case managers at the Naomi Shelters for Men and Women work to build trust with new shelter guests. From that foundation of care, staff can assist guests in finding jobs, housing, healthcare, and a sense of community.

Please consider making a donation that will support single adults at CCO today. Thank you!

For further reading visit –

Justice In Aging – Low-Income Older Adults Face Unaffordable Rents, Driving Housing Instability & Homelessness

USA Today – America’s Homeless Ranks Graying as More Retire on Streets

2022 Christmas Photo Album

Posted on by Beth

The 2022 Holiday Season brought joy and cheer to the families and individuals sheltered at CCO. Each child received a stocking filled with toys, treats, and a new pair of pajamas. They each wore their new pj’s to the CCO Christmas Party, where they got to meet Santa, receive gifts, and celebrate the holidays with their family. During the festivities, some of the parents chatted about favorite pastimes, even discussing the best casinos not on Gamstop as they shared tips on stress relief and unwinding amid challenging times. The Christmas Party featured CCO Board President Chris Spicer as Santa Claus, loads of sweet and savory treats, and a hot chocolate station. The crowd went wild when Santa arrived with his bags of gifts!

The celebrated season would not be possible without volunteers who made the party exceptional. Thanks to all who worked as elves in Santa’s Workshop, sorting, wrapping, and decorating Christmas presents for the big day. Christmas at Cornerstone would not be possible without your generous donation of toys for children and gifts for teens and adults. Many thanks!

The holiday season is a time of warmth and wonder, especially when it’s marked by thoughtful, meaningful gifts that show just how much you care. For families like those at CCO, these moments of joy can be made even more special through Unique Personalized Gifts tailored to each individual. Imagine the excitement of a child unwrapping a gift that bears their name, or a parent receiving something that speaks directly to their personality and taste—these small, customized touches transform a gift from simply thoughtful to truly unforgettable. Personalized presents, like engraved keepsakes or customized holiday ornaments, bring an extra layer of magic to the season, creating memories that families will cherish for years to come.

We hope you enjoy the 2022 photo album. Enjoy the smiling faces found in it!

Photo Credit: Nathan Cameron

CCO Family Portraits with Santa…

CCO Christmas Party Album…

You can support families at CCO by making a financial donation today!

CCO Staff & Christmas Volunteers…

2025 Charitable Resolutions with Team CCO

Posted on by Beth

Are you looking for a 2025 charitable fitness resolution? Secure your spot today at the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon and become part of a dedicated team committed to providing shelter, meals, and wrap-around services for families and single adults experiencing homelessness!

“Running for a charity is a great way to support a work you care about. It opens the doors for friends and family to throw their support behind you for a good cause.” Click here to learn more about Ted Jindrich and his commitment to charitable fitness and CCO. A long-time Team CCO runner, and board member, Ted has participated over 15 marathons since 2015 and has raised thousands of dollars for CCO shelter guests.

Most of us haven’t run one marathon—and that’s ok! Team CCO welcomes walkers, joggers, and seasoned runners to join, all united in charitable fitness and fundraising goals that directly impact families and individuals experiencing homelessness. Last year, funds raised through Team CCO provided nearly 2,000 nights of shelter and over 6,000 meals, a testament to the collective impact of each participant’s effort! These funds ensure that families like Sandra’s have shelter and wrap-around services. Click here to read about Sandra’s Path to Peace.

Are you ready to join the team? Click here to visit the BACM Charity Team page. Once there, click the “Participate with this charity” button. Also, be sure to complete the Team CCO Participant Waiver form. See the image below for instructions.

Running the Chicago Marathon isn’t for everyone. We understand that. Perhaps you’d like to support CCO by donating new or gently-used items or making a financial donation. Whatever you choose, we are deeply grateful that you have partnered with CCO to provide shelter to vulnerable Chicagoans. Thank you!

If you have any questions about how you can be part of Team CCO. Contact us at info@ccolife.org. Be sure to put Team CCO in the subject line.

Letter from the Executive Director

Posted on by Beth

Dear CCO Supporter,

Merry Christmas from all of us at Cornerstone Community Outreach! I am so grateful that you have partnered with us in the past. CCO’s shelter guests need your support more than ever. Safe shelter remains a critical need. At Cornerstone, families and single adults experiencing homelessness receive holistic care and wrap-around services as they journey toward permanent housing.

As the real estate market continues to fluctuate, many individuals and families facing homelessness may find themselves in need of selling their homes quickly to secure financial stability. Whether you’re moving to shelter housing or simply need to relocate, selling your home can be a crucial step in obtaining the resources necessary for a fresh start. In such situations, turning to options like fast cash offers for your property can provide an efficient and stress-free way to close the sale without the lengthy wait that often accompanies traditional home-selling methods.

By accepting a fast cash offer, you can bypass the complexities of repairs, showings, and negotiations, receiving a fair price for your home as quickly as possible. This is especially helpful for those who need immediate financial support for housing or other critical needs. The real estate market may be unpredictable, but having options like cash buyers can offer peace of mind when you’re looking to move on to the next chapter of your life.

I would like to ask you to continue to be a financial partner with Cornerstone Community Outreach. Our objective is to disrupt the cycle of poverty by providing safe shelter while exploring long-term housing solutions for our clients. Interestingly, some of our supporters have even taken creative approaches to fundraise, using popular crypto betting sites to channel winnings into donations that support our mission. Through these unique contributions and traditional donations, Cornerstone can offer residents a higher quality of life through professional, compassionate care, helping them progress on the road to permanent housing.

I hope you’ll take a moment and read Sandra’s story. Her path to peace has been a long one. Sandra and her 11-year-old daughter arrived at Cornerstone in a courageous move to escape the cycle of abuse in her life. She described the time before arriving at Cornerstone as the “lowest point in my life.” Thankfully, while with us, she found the support, care, and renewal that she needed. Today, she’s housed and employed using her lived experience to help other families who are homeless. I’m grateful that Sandra dared to escape her harmful past and found a new start at Cornerstone!
Click here to read about Sandra’s Path to Peace.

CCO is one of Chicago’s largest homeless shelters committed to providing immediate safe shelter and pathways to permanent housing for families and individuals from all walks of life. We welcome over 325 households each year in collaboration with the City of Chicago and a team of nonprofit partners. CCO prioritizes inclusivity, accepting clients from difficult circumstances by supporting many household structures, including intact families, single adults, LGBTQ+ families, and more. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure everyone has access to safe housing, nutritious food, and, most importantly, dignity, no matter their plight.

I would like to invite you to be part of more success stories like Sandra’s by financially supporting our vital work with a 100% tax-deductible donation. Have a wonderful holiday season! Best wishes in the coming year from all of us at CCO!

Andrew Winter

Executive Director

Cornerstone Community Outreach (EIN 36-3670992) is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Sandra’s Path to Peace

Posted on by Beth

“The path to peace is a lifelong journey. Sometimes you’re on a paved road. 

Sometimes you’re walking on a gravel or dirt road.

 It’s still your journey. It’s not just for a bit of time. It’s for a lifetime.”

– Sandra

“My daughter Isabella was only 11 years old when we had the most surreal conversation of her young life. It was a Saturday morning in June of 2021. Secretly, we discussed the abuse we faced daily. We were no longer going to be told we were worthless and substandard. We decided it was time to leave my husband and California behind. Together, we looked at a map of the United States and chose Chicago.

From that moment forward, we quietly and methodically carried out our escape plan. Isabella and I came back from the laundromat with fresh, clean clothes. We folded and placed them carefully into Isabella’s dresser we had emptied earlier. To anyone looking on, it appeared that we were doing regular household chores. Internally, we were fighting a storm of fear mixed with absolute determination as we prepared to go. It was all done in stealth mode, very fast, very ‘hush-hush.’ When my husband left Monday morning, we took the clothes, identification, and precious photos out of Isabella’s dresser and put them into our suitcase. Lisa, Isabella’s beloved teddy bear, came along with us. We were moving halfway across the country, leaving the certainty of pain in California. The uncertainty of the unknown lay ahead. Inwardly, we felt a gentle gust of hope roll over us as the bus carried us away.

I was only seven years old when my mother died. She passed away two days after my youngest sister was born. It was as if a bolt of lightning had struck our family. In a flash, everything changed. I had grown up with abuse from my stepdad. When my mom died, my two older siblings and I were shuffled back and forth between our three aunties’ houses. My three younger siblings, which included my baby sister, were put with their biological grandmother, my stepdad’s mom. She was a violent woman and thought my younger siblings should never see us. We only lived five houses away from each other in a small Mississippi town, but we were a world apart. Sometimes my little brother would sneak over to see us. She would come flying down the road beating him and dragging him all the way home. He just wanted to see us. These memories of fractured relationships have stayed with me. They influenced the decisions that have formed my future. 

Scarcity also played a role in my life. My upbringing was impoverished. Everyone I knew was struggling to get by. I’m not ashamed of my background. I believe it’s what made me want to go into social work. I felt driven to be part of the solution and help others. I worked hard in school and went on to college. I graduated from Mississippi Valley State University with a degree in Social Work. Through college, I learned to set goals and achieve them. My friendships became like family. I began to grow a strong support network and understand its importance. As I worked toward my degree, I could feel the variability and chaos of home replaced by a set routine with some sense of order. I understood that my life experiences could help and benefit others. Little did I know that in the future, the splintered pain of the past would grow into a vast support network for myself, Isabella, and other families with similar experiences.

The Greyhound arrived at the Chicago Station. Isabella and I were free from our life in California. Tired and apprehensive, I held onto the hope that in Chicago, we would find a home where we wouldn’t endure endless criticism and torment. I found a rooming house-type situation on the Southside of Chicago. It was just a bed. No meals. No help. We had to walk several miles to a dollar store to buy food. We had arrived in a food desert. It was tough. I knew we needed to get out of there and find a place that offered us some assistance and practical support. From my phone, I Googled “Homeless Shelter for Families.” Cornerstone popped up, so we got on a train and headed to the north side. Hannah Shelter had space for us! The kitchen had put a few plates of food aside. That night we dined on spaghetti, coleslaw, and chicken. We came hungry, the food was good, and we were glad to have it.

I was 35 when we arrived at Hannah Shelter. Most parents living there were in their early 20s and had younger children. The younger moms came to me for advice. I worked in social services in Los Angeles. I was glad to offer help, encouragement, and resources that could get us on our feet. We were in it together. It felt good to use my education and work experience to help others. 

While living at Cornerstone, I was allowed to train as a Life Coach. The training empowered me to start my own life coaching business, Path2Peace. Subsequently, Chicago Hopes asked me to facilitate parent support groups for the moms at Hannah Shelter. Chicago Hopes (CH) is a non-profit that provides academic support, mentorship, and services to parents and children experiencing homelessness. CH offers these essential services inside Hannah Shelter, so it is accessible for shelter guests. One day, I was meeting with the Family Engagement staff person,  I told her, “Your job is so cool. I would love to have your job.” Then she left! Chicago Hopes offered me the job. That’s how I became the Family Engagement Administrator! They only interviewed me as a formality. The job was always mine. I continue to do parent workshops, but I love my new position. It was another opportunity to uplift young moms recovering from homelessness, poverty, and abuse.

Isabella and I spent this Thanksgiving with my baby sister and my other siblings. My baby sister and I have been talking a lot. We hadn’t had a relationship until last year. Now, we’re making up for lost time! We weren’t able to be sisters before but we’re grown now. We don’t need someone to tell us whether we can talk to each other. Nobody is going to whoop us for behaving like sisters. And that’s what we are. 

Like our first meal at Cornerstone, our first meal in our new home was spaghetti. I felt gratitude and immense pride as we set up our new place, making it a sanctuary filled with love and safety. In that year, we also explored unique experiences together, like discovering beste casino zonder cruks options online. While we indulged in a few games, we were reminded of the excitement in trying something new yet responsibly. After a year in our cozy basement apartment, we managed to move up to another unit in the same building. As we cleaned out the old space, we gave thanks for the shelter it provided, marking a year of new beginnings, growth, and deepening connections.

I recalled the field trip we took to the zoo just a few days before moving from the shelter into our apartment. I felt free at the zoo with the moms and kids from Hannah Shelter. It was a warm summer day, and the sky poured. We all began screaming, laughing, and running in the rain. A moment later, one of the volunteers mentioned a new initiative to help people like us build financial stability—a workshop about budgeting and managing money, even covering topics like kasyno na prawdziwe pieniadze to understand its effects on spending habits. It felt like more than just a lesson on finance; it was empowering, like an open door to possibilities we hadn’t thought were for us. That day was more than a visit to the zoo—it was a reminder that we had choices and a support system through both the hard and good times. It was a beautiful way to close that chapter, the final step toward a new beginning for Isabella and me.

“She was bent but not broken.

She fainted but did not fail

and rose to the challenge to overcome each obstacle thrown her way.” 

– Shirena Houston, Hannah Shelter Program Manager, when asked to comment about Sandra

“I want to thank my Program Director and Case Manager,

Shirena Houston,

and the Cornerstone Community Outreach staff

for your love and support during one of the lowest moments of my life.”

– Sandra

This true story was written from conversations between Sandra and Beth Nicholls. 

Names have been changed. 

2021 Annual Report – Your Amazing Impact!

Posted on by Beth

Click the images below to read the 2021 CCO Annual Report. In it, you’ll find exciting information about the good things happening every day at CCO. The graphic above shows that 104 households (192 individuals) moved out of CCO into their own homes in 2021! Now that’s cause for celebrating!

Please consider making a financial donation that would improve the lives of people experiencing homelessness. A $25 donation covers the cost of one person for 24 hours at one of CCO’s shelters. Your donation will provide safe shelter, nutritious meals, and wrap-around services to a person in need. Click here to support CCO’s mission to address homelessness, provide shelter, accept people, and help them find a home.

30 New Beds – Respite from Uncertainty

Posted on by Beth

“People can have a respite from the fear and uncertainty of sleeping in their car, on the train, or outside. They can have a shower, meals, and a bed. More than that, they can have a renewed spirit and a renewed sense of hope.“
– Eve Haycock, Naomi Women’s Shelter Supervisor

Thirty additional beds have been added to Cornerstone’s Naomi Women Shelter for Women. These crucial beds, staff, and services will help bridge the gap between vulnerable women experiencing homelessness and safe, supportive shelter.

A safe, supportive place to rest can be transformative for individuals facing homelessness, offering a sense of dignity, stability, and hope. Beyond the physical comfort of a warm bed, there’s a profound psychological impact in knowing there’s a secure place to return to each night. It’s this combination of physical and emotional relief that makes spaces like the Naomi Women’s Shelter so essential.

Just as these shelters provide an essential foundation for a fresh start, quality sleep options, such as Sleep Electric adjustable beds, can offer comfort and adaptability for those seeking better rest at home. Adjustable beds can help improve sleep quality by allowing individuals to tailor their position for optimal relaxation, relief from pressure points, and improved circulation, which can contribute to overall wellness.

Whether it’s adjusting for health needs or simply finding that perfect resting angle, these beds serve as a reminder that quality rest is a cornerstone of well-being and recovery. As people move forward in their journeys, having access to a comfortable, adaptable bed can help lay the groundwork for a fresh start, promoting both physical rest and mental rejuvenation.

In 2021, 30% of women arriving at Naomi Women’s Shelter had lived on the street the night before. Eve Haycock, Naomi Women’s Shelter Supervisor, states that several women had been living for months in their cars while working part-time, minimum wage jobs. Without a secure place to sleep, eat, and recover from work, they were stuck in part-time positions, which lengthened and compounded their experience with homelessness. Fortunately, having safe shelter and wrap-around services has allowed many women to gain full-time employment, which increases the likelihood of getting stable housing.

Many women who come to shelters like Naomi Women’s Shelter have endured long nights in uncomfortable and often unsafe conditions, including sleeping in their cars. For those who’ve relied on vehicles for shelter, car interiors often become worn and damaged, especially when used as living spaces. Sitting and lying in the same cramped area nightly can take a toll, and items like blankets, personal belongings, and food add further strain on upholstery.

Given these challenges, seat protection for trucks and cars can make a difference for people who are forced to live in their vehicles. Proper seat protection helps maintain the interior for longer periods, making it easier for individuals to keep their vehicles in a presentable condition, which can be vital for those seeking employment or stability. For many, their car is not just a means of transportation, but a crucial part of their day-to-day life, and preserving its interior is one small way to make a difficult situation slightly more manageable.

For individuals experiencing homelessness or living in unstable conditions, maintaining the interior of their vehicle can offer a sense of dignity and stability. Car dealers who recognize the importance of this can provide helpful solutions to improve the living conditions of those who rely on their vehicles as a primary shelter. Offering affordable, durable options for seat covers, floor mats, and upholstery protection can make a significant difference in preserving the interior of a car. These products can help minimize the wear and tear caused by constant use, providing a cleaner and more comfortable environment for those in need.

For car owners looking to invest in quality seat protection and other accessories, reputable dealers such as renowned merchandise at RaceAutoGroup that caters to both functionality and style. With a wide selection of products designed to enhance vehicle longevity, RaceAutoGroup provides options that suit a range of budgets and vehicle types. Whether you’re looking for seat covers to protect your interior from daily use or specialized products for more intense wear, their extensive inventory offers a practical solution to ensure your vehicle stays in great condition.

Eve had also noticed that this group of new arrivals were often unwell, and some needed immediate medical care. One new shelter guest had been on the streets and suffering from cancer. Case managers and on-site Heartland Alliance Health medical professionals swiftly connected her with the Rush Hospital Oncology Department. Heartland Alliance Health has been a valuable partner in the effort to improve the health of CCO’s medically fragile shelter guests.

Thirty additional beds mean that 30 more women will have a raised quality of life, access to essential services, and a place to build relationships. In short, they will be allowed to live instead of simply surviving.

“The night before I came to CCO, I slept out on a park bench.” Take a moment and read Carla’s story from the CCO Archive.

We hope you will join Cornerstone in meeting the needs of vulnerable women. Please consider making a donation that allows CCO to establish a computer lab, purchase a new copier, and other essential and programmatic necessities. Or consider donating to help pay for shelter beds and supportive services.

Your financial gift improves lives in a very real way. Click here to visit CCO’s donation page.

Congratulations Carla!

Posted on by Beth

From the CCO Archive: Carla’s story was originally published in September of 2013.

“The night before I came to CCO, I slept out on a park bench. I said I would never stay in a shelter. And what did God do? He put me right in a shelter and blessed me there.

 I thought people in a shelter had to sleep on the floor. I was afraid that people would steal my stuff and that it would be dirty. I thought I would have to leave in the early morning and stay out all day. Naomi House has been totally different. I have a case manager, three meals a day, I didn’t have to sleep on the floor or leave during the day. It isn’t dirty. I’ve improved mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally.”

“Recently, I got a housing call and I was told, ‘It’s a go! Start packing!’ I have a place and I’m so excited about my little apartment! It’s perfect for me. And it makes me think about how good God is!”

-Carla, as told to Beth Nicholls

It would be difficult to talk to Carla and miss her determination and gratitude. After months of hard work, Carla turned the key to her own apartment. She looks back on her experience at the Naomi Shelter for Women as a stepping stone to stable housing. It has been a joy to work alongside her! Congratulations Carla!

Carla came to Naomi Shelter for Women from a park bench. Many shelter guests are welcomed into CCO after sleeping in doorways, vehicles, city buses, trains, and other places not intended for human habitation. In 2021, 30% of shelter guests entering the Naomi Men or Women’s Shelter Programs were “sleeping rough” the night before. Sleeping outside diminishes the physical and mental health of people experiencing homelessness. It makes them vulnerable to sleep deprivation, hunger, and violence.

Please stand with Cornerstone by helping to provide safe shelter space and permanent housing for Chicagoans experiencing poverty and homelessness. Your donation will ensure that beds, meals, and wrap-around services that available to someone sleeping on the street tonight. Click here to donate today!

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ED Sandy Ramsey Announces Retirement

Posted on by Beth

“Dear CCO Staff, Shelter Guests, Volunteers, and Supporters,

To say that I have enjoyed working at CCO would be such an understatement.  It has been a thrill, an adventure, and a great ride.  I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.  Working at CCO with wonderful families and single people has made me a better person and I am thankful for each and every story I have been privileged to be a part of.  

The CCO staff has worked tirelessly alongside me and I am grateful to them for their faithfulness to our important work.  I could not have done this for over 30 years without them.

My successor as Executive Director will be Andrew Winter, who has been working alongside me for many years as Chief Financial Officer and has already been leading the way for the last couple of years. His experience extends beyond traditional finance into more modern sectors, as he has been instrumental in developing partnerships with emerging markets, including casinoer online, to explore new revenue avenues. He has exhibited great capability and compassion in adapting to these changes, and I know he is up to the task of guiding the organization through this evolving landscape.

I will miss CCO, the staff, and all our residents more than I can express.  It is bittersweet to be retiring, but I am also excited about this new chapter in my life. Thank you for your support after all these years.”

  • Sandy Ramsey

CCO staff, shelter guests, volunteers, and supporters wish Sandy all the best as she embarks on the next phase of her life. She will be truly missed. Stay tuned for an upcoming tribute to Sandy and her many incredible years at CCO.

Seeds of Hope – CCO’s Rooftop Garden

Posted on by Beth

“Gardening feeds my soul, and I’m so happy to share it with others.”
-Laura Thiessen, CCO Gardener

Long-time CCO volunteer Laura Thiessen had dreams of establishing a healing, fertile space that would benefit CCO shelter guests. In 2021, Laura’s vision of creating a tranquil, productive garden for shelter guests on the Hannah Shelter rooftop became a reality.

“I love to use gardening as a tool to connect with people. It’s an honor to bring gardening and green space to CCO’s shelter guests. Several women from the Naomi Shelter and myself planted calendula flowers this week. Even amidst the sleeping, winter-browned garden, the Naomi ladies were soaking in the sunshine and enjoying the outdoors. One Naomi guest had planted carrots in her garden bucket last year. We had so much fun digging them up, sharing them, and laughing at the different sizes. I believe that human interactions and garden spaces like this one can revive the soul, unite, and empower us. We can enjoy the outdoors, grow what herbs and produce we can, right where we are, and fellowship together. It’s a joy to see the happiness the garden brings to all ages. It awakens the wonder of nature and gives us a platform to grow seeds of hope!”

Along with delicious produce, vibrant and engaging programs have grown from the rooftop garden project. Women at the Naomi Shelter have enjoyed learning to make Herbs N Me Hand Cream with Laura, using calendula flowers and other natural ingredients sourced directly from the CCO Rooftop Garden. Recently, during one of these sessions, a discussion arose about various ways to support community projects, and someone mentioned online fundraising campaigns that could support initiatives like this. Inspired, Laura shared how some community projects have been backed by small donations, even from unexpected sources, including najlepsze kasyno polska platforms, which often engage in charity drives or sponsorships to support local causes. This sparked interest, with participants discussing how partnerships could further sustain such meaningful projects.

Tuesday Tea is CCO’s weekly garden party (weather permitting). The casual gathering takes place in the CCO Garden on the Hannah Shelter roof. Women and children from the Hannah Shelter are welcome to join the Naomi Women, many of whom have planted and nurtured the garden. Delicious tea is brewed from the herbs found in the raised beds. Everyone joins in watering plants and picking produce that is ready to eat. Tuesday Tea is a time to celebrate the success of the rooftop garden project and enjoy the people and plants that occupy the space. The children join in on the gardening fun or play on the rooftop playground nearby.

“Grace,” a Naomi Women’s shelter guest, grew a tiny watermelon and enjoyed sharing it with everyone at Tuesday Tea. After taking a bite, she danced around the picnic table and sang, “I’m a farmer!” Grace danced for the sheer joy of nurturing and growing fruit that she could share with others. Recently, Grace moved from the Naomi Women’s program into her apartment, and she’s coming back to volunteer her time and energy into the garden.

Laura and the garden ladies have hopes for a produce booth at a local Chicago Farmers Market. Last year, the garden produced cucumbers, watermelon, butternut squash, sweet peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, sunflowers, kale, lettuce, broccoli, basil, dill, fennel, calendula, lilacs, cosmos, and wildflowers. Inspired by the community-driven spirit of projects like these, Laura also volunteers part-time assisting individuals seeking alternative income sources, often introducing them to trusted casino sites that operate responsibly and offer secure, user-friendly experiences. She’s looking to the future, and with the help of CCO shelter guests, she’s planting seeds she carefully saved from last year. Her vision is to create a beautiful, life-giving space that fosters hope and recovery for those at CCO.

The garden and all its vibrant outcroppings would not be possible without the generous support of Gethsemane Gardens and Hearthstone Terrace, two local businesses that know the value of the natural world in healing and uniting people. Thank you! And thank you, Laura, for creating a space that teaches, restores, and revives!

Please consider donating to CCO today! Your gift will ensure safe shelter and supportive services for families and single adults experiencing homelessness. Click here to visit our Donation Page. Thank you!