Founded in November 2023, The Heartwarming Center provides free overnight accommodations for up to 10 unhoused women aged 18 and over on "Code Blue" nights between November 15th and March 31st. Additionally, it operates several nights each week throughout the year, offering shelter during severe weather and connecting women with essential resources.

Last year, the Heartwarming Center focused on empowering women with the theme “Invest in Women Accelerate Change.” Support groups helped women connect, share experiences, and offer practical and emotional support. The Center also addressed mental and physical well-being, provided resources for holistic health, and emphasized education to promote personal growth.

This year's theme is “Don’t Just Survive, THRIVE In 2025.” Alongside supporting women through groups, we now also focus on employment and housing.

The Heartwarming Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including security monitoring, dedicated volunteers, laundry facilities, shower access, nutritious hot meals, wash cloths, towels, personal items for women, as well as beverages such as coffee, tea, hot cocoa, water and snacks. Additional amenities include a selection of library books, employment opportunities, and various other support services.

Weekly resources and group offerings include: the Breakfast with a Side of Heart Speakers Series (hosted by the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office), Hope Sheds Light for addiction support services, 180 Turning Lives Around for domestic violence Shares group, medical screenings, podiatry services, art sessions, beautician services, journaling workshops, the Women’s Worth Group, movie nights, Bible study sessions, chair yoga classes, individual counseling, board game nights, a book club, and additional activities.

Progress Made: 

• One participant accepted full-time employment with Monmouth County as a truck driver and has secured her own residence.

• Another individual accepted a part-time position as a cashier at Monmouth Medical Center. She has also taken on leadership roles, serving as Group Leader for the Book Club and worked as overnight staff at the Heartwarming Center. In addition, she was enrolled in the Rutgers University Master’s Program for Human Resources.

• A participant enrolled in the Patient Care Technician (PCT) program at Brookdale Community College and achieved an impressive score of 92 on her first test.

• One woman is employed at both a hotel and Foodtown. She previously worked as overnight staff at the Heartwarming Center and now has obtained her own place.

• Another participant is currently renting a room in Asbury Park.

• Full-time employment was secured at Shop Rite, along with acceptance into permanent housing.

• One woman is employed part-time at Wendy’s and has also received permanent housing.

• Another participant is involved in a day program and is enrolled at Grand Canyon University to study Social Work. She also holds an overnight staff position. 

• Another participates in a day program, works as a housekeeper for the Heartwarming Center, and is employed as a cleaning person. 

• Another woman has achieved full-time plus hours of employment at a distribution store and could use a donated vehicle.

AT A GLANCE

Total Code Blue, Resource, and Inclement weather days open: 273

Total Number of Ladies housed: 1,530                 

Per Night (not including building costs): $500

Thank you for your compassion toward our community and the unhoused women in our area.