As we prepare to close our Montpelier Day Space on April 30, we want to share our deep appreciation for everyone who helped make this pilot program possible.
Launched in response to a clear community need, this was Good Samaritan Haven’s first day space program separate from our overnight shelters. From December through April, we welcomed 15–25 guests each weekday, served more than 1,200 breakfasts and offered warmth, respite, and connection to over 100 individuals facing homelessness.
The day space became a hub for essential resources—clothing, hygiene supplies, phones, crisis support, and referrals to medical and recovery services. Our Social Worker / Crisis Interventionist helped guests navigate housing, access care, and manage the daily challenges of poverty and homelessness.
This work was not easy. Our staff, many of whom were new to Montpelier, spent months building trust and connection with guests—work that is both emotionally demanding and profoundly important. We are grateful for their presence, compassion, and perseverance. Special thanks to our Street Outreach team and our Elks Club Overflow crew, who showed up day after day to support guests alongside the day space team.
We are especially grateful to Christ Episcopal Church—their vestry, clergy, congregation and staff have been generous, warm, and gracious partners throughout this project. While they did not anticipate hosting the day space long-term, they welcomed our extended stay with open arms. We’re also deeply thankful to the City of Montpelier for their partnership and steady support, and to the faith-based volunteers and community lunch teams whose longstanding commitment created a space of warmth, dignity, and welcome for our guests each day.
Above all, we are humbled by the community of care that formed among our guests. Their resilience, generosity, and solidarity have left a lasting impression.
Though the day space is closing, the lessons we’ve learned will shape our future. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue to grow and adapt in the face of a persistent housing crisis.