A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

It is clear that the landscape for non-profit organizations like ours is shifting. We’re seeing increasing uncertainty in government funding and a complex, evolving financial environment. News reports indicate potential reductions in federal funding for critical programs, including housing and social services, alongside an increase in demand for services due to economic pressures. This can create a challenging climate for organizations like ours, which rely heavily on stable and predictable support to serve our community’s most vulnerable.

However, amidst these changes, we want to assure you that Bethany House remains steadfast. We are actively monitoring legislative developments, engaging with policymakers, and staying informed about every potential shift that could impact our operations as an emergency homeless shelter. Our team is working diligently to anticipate these changes, adapt our strategies, and explore diversified funding sources to ensure we can continue to provide vital shelter, food and all the extra supports we strive to offer our guests.

Your continued partnership is more crucial than ever as we work to get ahead of these challenges and maintain our unwavering commitment to our mission. We are confident that by staying informed, proactive, and working together, we can continue to be a beacon of hope for those who need us most.

Katie Swanson, Executive Director

Annual Guest Satisfaction Survey

Bethany House prioritizes providing our guests with a safe, warm space to heal and grow.  Our Quality Improvement Committee conducts an Annual Guest Satisfaction survey, which was recently concluded.

 

Overall, guests feel safe and that they are making progress towards their goals.  Many guests expressed their gratitude for Bethany House- the accommodations, the staff, the resources.

 

Some of the feedback we heard reiterates the impactful work we are doing here, day in and day out:

 

“Thank you for housing me…I’m humble and grateful thank you”

 

“We love the staff here- they make sure we are good <3”

 

“I am grateful to have this opportunity to help me get back on my feet”

 

“I am grateful that staying at Bethany House has not made this situation more traumatic than it is already.”

GARDEN TOUR A BLOOMING SUCCESS

We are still shining from the gorgeous day we had on Wednesday, June 11th, at our 4th Annual Bethany House Garden Tour!

Over 130 guests strolled through some of Rockville Centre’s most beautiful outdoor spaces, meeting up at the Rockville Links Club afterwards for a lovely luncheon- all to support our important mission of ending homelessness on Long Island.

Our wonderful docents, dressed in outfits by NYDJ, greeted attendees at each garden, marked with a gorgeous Balloon Remedy Design– showing them just where to roam.

At the luncheon, Keith, with Art Flower and Gift Shoppe, held the attention of every event go-er with an interesting tutorial on floral arranging. Art Flower and Gift Shoppe also generously donated a flower cart filled with stunning buds, where guests could purchase and make their very own beautiful floral creation, all benefiting Bethany House. The event was also lined with amazing raffle baskets for guests to win- including a grand prize chance to win a custom garden installation, generously donated by Maroney Landscaping!

Thank you to all of the volunteers, garden hosts, attendees and sponsors for making this year’s event a huge success- raising over $11,000! A very special thank you, in closing, to our event sponsor, PSEG!

WANT YOUR GARDEN FEAUTURED ON OUR 2026 GARDEN TOUR?

 

Contact [email protected] today!

GIRLS SCOUTS GIVE BACK

 

The Baldwin Service Unit of Girl Scouts of Nassau County came together to donate over 30 baskets of food, paper goods, toys and books. Senior Troop #2472 led a donation drive to create wish list baskets filled with essential items, and thanks to the generosity of the incredible Girl Scouts, they were able to make a meaningful impact!

 

Girl Scouts of all levels—Daisies, Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, and Seniors—delivered donation baskets and toured Bethany House.

 

A huge thank you to the following troops for donating and participating in the drop-off:
Troop 2088
Troop 2288
Troop 2324
Troop 2196
Troop 2210

 

It was inspiring to see Girl Scouts of all ages come together to make a difference. Their kindness and generosity truly embody the spirit of Girl Scouting—taking action, giving back, and supporting the community.

 

Their work was so impactful for both parties that they are already planning another drive and donation! Amazing work, girls!

NEW BEDDING NEEDED

Bethany House is expanding our community impact and is preparing to open our newest shelter. We need your help! We require new bed-in-a-bag sets to make our beds and welcome our additional guests.

 

Please visit our wishlist and consider purchasing the requested bedding.  It is with support from neighbors like YOU that we are able to help the women, and women with children, who turn to us in their time of need.