Director's Letter: Exciting Possibilities & Challenging Environment

By Heather Quaas-Annsa • August 5, 2026

Dear Friends,

At Community Supported Shelters, we believe that ending homelessness is a community effort. Every person who finds shelter, secures housing, starts a new job, or reconnects with hope does so because people like you choose to be part of the solution.

This year marks an exciting new chapter for our organization. After many years on Grant Street, we've officially moved into our new headquarters on 10th Place. While our team is already hard at work in the new space, we can't wait to welcome you to our Grand Opening in August. Our new home creates exciting new possibilities for stronger partnerships, expanded services, and more opportunities for people experiencing homelessness to find stability and rebuild their lives.

At the same time, we're navigating one of the most challenging funding environments we've faced in years. Rising costs and uncertain public funding have already forced us to reduce Access Center hours, even as more people continue to seek our help. The need hasn't diminished, but the resources available to meet it have.

That's why we're asking our community to show up in whatever way they can. Take a tour and see the impact of your support firsthand. Volunteer your time or talents. Make a financial contribution to help sustain our programs. If your garden is overflowing, donate your extra zucchini, tomatoes, or cucumbers to help stock our pantry. Every act of generosity, large or small, helps create a stronger, more compassionate community.

Because of supporters like you, hundreds of people each year find shelter, receive life-changing services, move into housing, and begin rebuilding their lives. Those successes are worth protecting, and together, we can ensure they continue.

Thank you for being part of the community that makes this work possible. We hope to see you soon - whether on a tour, at our Grand Opening, volunteering alongside us, or simply sharing what you can. Every connection makes a difference.

With gratitude,

Heather Quaas-Annsa

Co-Executive Director

Community Supported Shelters

You Gotta Nourish to Flourish

All donations to the Community Supported Shelters Nourish Fund will be directed toward nourishing the lives of unhoused individuals through employment prep, peer-led support groups, arts entrepreneurship, and more.