On a cold November night in Fond du Lac, something powerful happened not quietly, but collectively.
On November 15, 2023, the Holy Family Warming Shelter opened its doors on First Street, offering safety, warmth, and dignity to adults experiencing homelessness during the harshest winter months. What began as a response to a growing need quickly became a living example of what’s possible when a community chooses compassion.
This is the story behind that shelter and the people who made it possible.
A Place of Safety Rooted in Compassion
The Holy Family Warming Shelter was created to provide overnight shelter for up to 30 single adults, regardless of background or belief. Guided by Christian values of compassion, dignity, and care, the shelter focuses on meeting people where they are with respect, understanding, and humanity.
Its central downtown location was intentional. Guests can access public transportation and nearby organizations offering additional resources and support, helping meet both immediate and long-term needs.
Impact in Just One Season
Between November 2023 and April 30, 2024, the shelter’s impact was profound:
- 164 individuals served
- More than 1,000 meals distributed, all donated
- 159 volunteers stepped up
- 32 local organizations represented among volunteers
Each meal, each overnight stay, and each conversation was an act of care a reminder that people experiencing homelessness are neighbors deserving of dignity and kindness.
“We were blessed to have an incredible team of staff and volunteers… all working with the common goal of providing the best care possible to those most in need in our community.”
Very Rev. Ryan Pruess, Pastor, Holy Family Catholic Community
Volunteers at the Heart of the Shelter
For many volunteers, the experience was transformative.
Mark and Karen Krueger, who volunteered throughout the season, described their time at the shelter as “gratifying,” offering them a deeper understanding of what it means to experience homelessness.
They are people with hopes and dreams for the future,” the Kruegers shared. “The guests appreciated the kindness and respect shown to them.
These moments of connection simple conversations, shared meals, a warm place to sleep created something larger than shelter alone.
Community Support Made It Possible
The shelter’s success was driven by widespread community involvement. Hundreds of parishioners and community members donated supplies, funds, and time. Local businesses, churches, agencies, and government partners offered guidance, resources, and support.
Organizations like the Fond du Lac Family YMCA helped fill gaps by providing access to showers, while partnerships with St. Katharine Drexel Shelter and Fond du Lac County United Way helped raise awareness and funding through initiatives like the Day of Compassion, which raised over $4,000.
Without the widespread support we received, we would not have been able to care for our guests, let alone open.”
Erin Cobb, Director of Human Concerns
Looking Ahead: Expanding Care with Dignity
Because only essential renovations were completed before opening in 2023, additional improvements are now underway. These updates will:
- Increase shelter capacity
- Improve accessibility
- Add four on-site bathrooms and showers
These enhancements will elevate the level of care and further ensure that guests experience comfort, respect, and dignity during their stay.
How You Can Get Involved
The Holy Family Warming Shelter continues to rely on community support and there are many ways to help.
Volunteers are especially needed for:
- Morning shifts during the week and weekends
- Saturday night shifts
Whether you can give your time, donate resources, or help spread awareness, every contribution matters.
A Story of Hope in Fond du Lac
The Holy Family Warming Shelter is more than a building. It’s a reminder of what happens when people show up for one another when compassion becomes action, and when dignity is offered freely.
This shelter stands as a powerful example of Fond du Lac at its best: caring, collaborative, and committed to helping neighbors through difficult seasons.
Sometimes, warmth looks like a blanket.
Sometimes, it looks like a meal.
And sometimes, it looks like a community coming together.
Learn More or Get Involved
To volunteer or support the Holy Family Warming Shelter, visit Holy Family Catholic Community and sign up to help care for neighbors in need.
