From left, HART volunteers Nancy Harrison and Valerie Welch serve a Thanksgiving Dinner. Photo courtesy of Carmichael HART

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) – Carmichael Homeless Assistance Resource Team (HART) is excited to share that Winter Respite 2026 concluded with extraordinary results. Over the course of 23 gatherings, the program served 558 individuals experiencing homelessness.

During the coldest months of the year, guests received more than 850 meals, 215 showers, hundreds of warm clothing items, essential supplies, health resources and, most importantly, the dignity of being welcomed into a safe and caring environment.

From January through February, local faith communities, volunteers and partner organizations opened their doors to provide warmth, comfort and connection through the program. Volunteers created a welcoming indoor space where neighbors experiencing homelessness could come in from the cold, enjoy hot meals and coffee, rest safely, access showers and connect with outreach teams and service providers.

Renee Carnes volunteering at HART’s Thanksgiving Dinner. Photo courtesy of Carmichael HART

This effort was made possible through an extraordinary network of support. A total of 239 HART volunteers from eight participating faith communities gave their time and energy to prepare meals, greet guests, assist with setup and cleanup and offer kindness and conversation throughout the program. Carmichael HART is deeply grateful for the professionals and outreach teams from partner service providers and organizations, as well as the support of three food closets that helped sustain this work.

Participating faith communities and service providers included Carmichael Presbyterian Church, Congregation Beth Shalom, Christ Community Church, Crossroads Church, St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Our Lady of the Assumption, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Libby Wafler, Annie Kempees, Community Health Works, Chamberlain University Outreach Nurses, Garrett Seller Insurance Services, Paul Mitchell School of Stylists, Hats for the Homeless, Carmichael Food Closet, St. John’s Food Closet and Sacramento Food Closet.

Winter Respite is one part of Carmichael HART’s broader mission to provide community-based solutions to homelessness. In addition to Winter Respite, Carmichael HART supports a Saturday Shower program, a Thursday meal outreach program, and transitional housing for individuals and families working toward stability and permanent housing.

To donate in support of Carmichael HART’s work, or to learn more about its programs and impact, visit www.carmichaelhart.org.