We all want to belong. That is no different for people experiencing a homeless crisis.
I was reminded of the importance of belonging by a story of a woman who had just come into a shelter. She cried tears of joy because she was no longer alone. Belonging is a powerful salve for hurting hearts.
Maslow's hierarchy of needs — a five-tier pyramid in psychology — begins with physiological needs and ends, ideally, with self-actualization. In the middle of the pyramid is love and belonging. The Linen Closet supports meeting basic needs, and I might add, contributes to a sense of belonging through fresh, new bed linens.
New linens stacked on a bed, waiting for someone to get tucked in for the first night — it is a beautiful experience. We hear this story over and over. Many people have never had a bed, or sheets, let alone new sheets of their own. The new bedding feels like a welcome home. Perhaps to a home they have never had before.
We want you to know that new bed linens are more than something to cover a mattress. They are hope, comfort, and dignity to individuals and families going through the hardest days of their life.
Thank you for your generosity and your heart for this mission of love. We could not do it without your ongoing support.
— Lynn, Executive Director