Stronger Spaces, Safer Futures: Thank You, Lowe’s Hometowns!

Sojourner was honored to be selected as one of only 100 projects nationwide to receive a 2025 Lowe’s Hometowns grant. Through this incredible program, Lowe’s invests in large-scale renovations that strengthen the heartbeats of communities. For us, that heartbeat is the safety, dignity, and healing of survivors of domestic violence.

Thanks to this generous support, critical improvements to our campus were completed in 2025, addressing essential infrastructure needs while creating more welcoming, trauma-informed spaces for the families we serve.

Completed Projects Include:

• Two brand-new roofs, along with all new gutters and downspouts

• Repairs to 19 damaged fascia areas

• Extensive tree trimming and removal of diseased trees, improving safety and protecting the buildings

• New landscaping, including healing garden spaces, sitting areas, and a walking path, completed with hands-on support from Lowe’s Red Vest volunteers

• Concrete sidewalk repairs and repairs to the cement footings beneath our covered walkway

• A completely refinished laundry room, designed and installed by Lowe’s Red Vest volunteers, with new washers and dryers thanks to Open Your Heart Foundation

• New blinds in our teen and art rooms, creating calmer, more comfortable environments

• Playground upgrades, including new play elements and a shade structure, completed in collaboration with The Frog Crossing Foundation and The Bernard Group

Each of these improvements strengthened the safety, functionality, and comfort of our shelter, ensuring survivors and their children are supported in spaces designed with care and dignity.

Watch the short video below for highlights of the work!

A Project That Truly Couldn’t Wait

For several years, Sojourner carefully weighed whether replacing the roofs on our two buildings was immediately necessary. Contractors offered differing opinions, with some urging immediate replacement and others suggesting the work could be delayed.

The Lowe’s Hometowns grant made it possible to move forward with confidence. Once construction began, our contractor discovered that the wood beneath the shingles was far more damaged and rotted than expected, requiring thousands of additional dollars in repairs. While unexpected, this discovery reinforced just how critical the project was. Completing the roof replacements prevented future leaks, structural damage, and significantly higher repair costs down the road.

Looking Forward

With these renovations complete, Sojourner’s shelter is better equipped to support survivors for years to come. These updates go beyond bricks and mortar and help ensure every survivor who walks through our doors is met with safety, stability, and a space where healing can begin.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our local Lowe’s store, the Lowe’s Hometowns grant program, and everyone who made this work possible.