WORCESTER- People all over are in need more than ever — especially the homeless population.
While everyone is susceptible to contracting COVID-19, those experiencing homelessness are particularly at risk due to the likelihood of preexisting health conditions causing them to be more vulnerable to the virus.
Worcester, being the second largest city in New England, is no stranger to of homelessness, and has proactively taken action to provide safety for the homeless population during these critical times.
In an effort to keep more of Worcester’s homeless protected, Abby’s House, a women and children’s shelter located at 52 High St. has extended their regular overnight hours to 24-hour access, and are accepting donations through their website.
In addition to their 24-hour efforts, Abby’s House is hosting the seventh annual Spring-Tacular, a seven-day virtual giving campaign and online auction from May 7 to May 14.
Bidding will be open until Thursday, May 14 at 7 PM — the eve of the Spring-Tacular event- when there will be a 30-minute pre-recorded video presentation featuring speakers such as Stephanie Page, Executive Director of Abby’s House, Board of Directors president Ashley Brandin, and a previous guest of Abby’s house to speak on her experience.
The Annette Rafferty award will be presented, honoring a volunteer who exemplifies the values of Abby’s House and it’s founder Annette Rafferty. Auction winners will be announced shortly after.
Colleen McGoldrick, Development and Communications Specialist at Abby’s House told ThisWeekInWorcester.com, “This is a great way for our community to get involved. Unfortunately, homelessness has not gone away and with this pandemic we are only seeing an increased need for the women and children that we serve, this is really a community effort and a great way for people to get involved.”
McGoldrick added, “These funds are really critical to continue the work that we are doing and to continue providing a safe place for women to call home.”
All proceeds will be used to fund increased staffing, a professional cleaning company to provide daily cleaning and disinfecting of the shelter, and to make up for the loss in revenue of the thrift shop.
Abby’s House goal is to raise $50,000.
Photo credit: Edited – Abbyshouse.org
