“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.
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.
