WINGS (Women In Need Growing Stronger) Care Closet- “The Nest”

The Cause

**The Nest: A Community Care Closet at WINGS**

At WINGS (Women In Need Growing Stronger), we understand that families seeking refuge in our shelters often arrive with little more than a few bags of belongings. To address this urgent need, we have transformed a classroom into "The Nest," a compassionate community care closet designed to support families transitioning to stability.

The Nest is more than just a donation closet; it’s a welcoming space where families can shop for essential items at no cost, allowing them to reclaim their dignity during a challenging time. Here, families can find a wide array of resources, including housewares, women’s and children’s clothing, and winter items. We offer undergarments, diapers, wipes, baby essentials, and toiletries—all vital for helping families establish a sense of normalcy as they rebuild their lives.

WINGS operates as a second-stage transitional housing program, where families are provided with fully furnished apartments. This supportive environment allows them the time and resources to get back on their feet before reintegrating into the community. The Nest plays an integral role in this process, ensuring that families have access to the household items they need to create a home.

Currently, we are utilizing old racking and storage solutions to organize our donations, but we recognize the need for improvement. To maximize our storage potential and enhance the shopping experience for families, we have consulted with a professional closet company. Their expertise will help us design a space that is not only functional but also inviting, allowing us to accommodate the growing number of donations we receive.

Who Will it Benefit?

The Nest at WINGS directly benefits the approximately 300 women and children we serve annually, including those in our outreach programs. With 49 suites available for transitional housing, we provide a safe haven for families in crisis, giving them the support and resources they need to rebuild their lives.

Families arriving at WINGS often come with very few belongings, making The Nest an essential resource. Here, they can access vital household items, clothing, and baby essentials at no cost, helping to create a nurturing environment as they transition to stability. By offering these essential items, we empower families to focus on their healing and growth, fostering independence and hope for a brighter future.

In addition to our residents, The Nest also supports outreach families who may not be living in our suites but still require assistance. This broader reach helps us address the needs of women and children facing housing instability in our community, ensuring that no family is left behind.