Mary’s Shelter recognized a $500,000 estate gift Monday that organization leaders say will help strengthen programs for families and unaccompanied homeless youth and support the shelter’s long-term growth.
The gift from the Estate of Laura Sander was formally presented during an Aug. 24 ceremony at Mary’s Shelter on Kenhorst Boulevard in Reading. Representatives of Sander’s family and estate joined shelter leadership, board members, staff and supporters for a ceremonial check presentation and the dedication of a plaque honoring Sander.
“This gift represents more than financial support. It is an investment in hope and opportunity for the individuals and families we serve,” said Christine Folk, executive director of Mary’s Shelter. “Laura Sander’s legacy will help ensure that future generations have access to the resources, guidance, and compassionate care they need to lead stable, independent lives.”
Mary’s Shelter said the donation will provide resources to strengthen existing programs, expand opportunities and support the organization’s plans for future growth.
The organization provides both residential programs and community outreach aimed at preventing and ending homelessness.
Its residential programs include the YESS Program, which provides 21-day emergency shelter services for youth ages 14 to 17, and the STRONG Program, an 18-month transitional housing program for youth ages 16 to 21.
Mary’s Shelter also operates a maternity program for youth ages 16 to 21, who may enter at any trimester of pregnancy and remain until their baby is 3 months old.
Community outreach includes a rapid rehousing program for young adults ages 18 to 24, offering assistance with securing housing, employment readiness, budgeting, leases and other aspects of independent living. Family outreach services provide case management, referrals and material assistance to low-income families with young children.
Mary’s Shelter is also part of the National Safe Place network, working with local libraries to provide locations where youth can seek help during an emergency.
According to statistics provided by the organization, Mary’s Shelter housed 45 individual youth through its YESS Program in 2025, representing 1,549 sheltered nights. The program reported a 65% family reunification rate with ongoing support from the shelter.
The STRONG Program housed 28 youth, representing more than 15,150 sheltered nights. Among outcomes reported by Mary’s Shelter, six participants graduated from high school, eight advanced a grade level, and eight participants with high school diplomas engaged in career training and employment programs.
Mary’s Shelter also reported providing pantry services to 855 expectant women during more than 7,550 visits in 2025 for material needs, counseling and supportive services.
The gift comes as homelessness remains a significant issue in Berks County. According to 2025 Point-in-Time Count figures from the Berks Coalition to End Homelessness, 682 people were identified as experiencing homelessness during the annual winter count in January. Of those, 179 were unsheltered, 433 were staying in emergency shelters and 70 were in transitional housing.
A separate summer count conducted in June 2025 identified 677 people experiencing homelessness, including 257 who were unsheltered. The coalition described the summer figure as the highest number it had recorded in Berks County. About 15.5% of those counted during the summer were under age 18.
“Laura Sander’s generosity is a reflection of the lasting difference one person can make in the lives of others,” said Frank Watts, president of the Mary’s Shelter Board of Directors. “On behalf of our Board, we are deeply grateful for this contribution and the confidence it represents in our mission. This gift will help ensure that Mary’s Shelter can continue providing hope, stability, and opportunity for families and young people for years to come.”
Mary’s Shelter has served the Reading area since 1995. The organization works with unaccompanied homeless youth, expectant mothers and low-income families, providing supportive services and access to resources with an emphasis on education, employment and long-term stability.