Neighbors Are Supporting Neighbors at the Speranza Inn

Giving is not just a personal act: it’s a way to strengthen the bonds that connect us to our community. The past few months at the Speranza Inn in Barre, Vermont have shown just how powerful that connection can be.

The Speranza Inn is Downstreet’s 41-room service-integrated hotel. What was once a former Quality Inn now provides shelter and support for people experiencing homelessness in Central Vermont. Since opening its doors in April of 2025, the Speranza Inn has served approximately 654 households. That’s more than 1,250 individuals who have accessed the services provided by the Speranza Inn and Downstreet. Altogether, that represents more than 13,000 nights when folks have had a place to rest.

A resource like the Speranza Inn depends on one crucial thing: generosity. Vermonters know that our colder months can be particularly challenging. Winter is a time when support is needed most. This winter, dozens of neighbors and friends recognized that need and stepped forward to give what they could, when they could, to help the guests at the Speranza Inn.

“The Speranza Inn project has benefited from an amazing amount of community support,” says Kathi Partlow, Director of Homeless Services at the Speranza Inn. “Community members and organizations have donated handmade hats, mittens and scarves, books, an amazing children’s couch for our meeting room, a beautiful holiday tree for our community space, food for our pantry, and pies to our Thanksgiving Day pie breakfast. Additionally, we had a visit from Santa that all guests, no matter their age, enjoyed!”

These efforts are not small. Hats, food, books—every act of kindness creates a genuine sense of warmth, connection, and belonging. With each gift, the halls and common spaces at The Speranza Inn become a stronger, healthier, more connected community.

Together, we make a noticeable impact.

For those who would like to help, the Speranza Inn team is always looking for shelf stable food pantry items that guests can use to make a meal. “We are so grateful for the continued support of the community as we work to provide a safe and nurturing space for our neighbors experiencing homelessness,” adds Kathi.

To donate pantry items or other essentials, reach out to Danielle Boyce, Front Desk Coordinator at the Speranza Inn, at dboyce@downstreet.org to coordinate a drop off time.

To make a financial contribution towards the ongoing operations of the Speranza Inn, visit our giving page to learn more and make an immediate difference in the lives of Central Vermonters.