Heather McSween

Hello Family and Friends!

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page to learn more about Stone House and Wilderness Heals!

This is my 8th year participating in this amazing event that is supported by a wonderful group of hikers and people like you who so generously support us as we work in our communities to normalize conversation around domestic violence and raise money for survivors of domestic violence.

Domestic violence is everywhere and it’s often a well kept secret. Every year I participate in the hike I inevitably make a new connection and hear a personal story from someone who lived through domestic violence. These personal stories are my ‘why’ and stay with me on the trails.

What is Wilderness Heals?
Wilderness Heals, now in its 29th year, is a 3-day pledge hike to build and engage a community of supporters who help to raise awareness of domestic violence while also raising critical unrestricted funds for Stone House.

What is Stone House?

Stone House is a domestic violence agency in Boston MA that offers community and residential programs to survivors of domestic violence providing a safe place and the opportunity/tools for survivors to rebuild safe and fulfilling lives of purpose.

Where is my money going?

Last year, Wilderness Heals hikers raised money for the Early Learning Center at Stone House; a trauma informed daycare center serving children who are recovering from the trauma of domestic violence. Our contributions helped support a stable environment and critical mental health services to children recovering from the trauma of domestic violence.

In 2024, our hike goal is to raise $250K for Stone House's Emergency Shelter programs and operations.

These services are needed in our community now more than ever. Recent legislation passed in Massachusetts limits shelter stays to 9 months. However, the average shelter stay is two years due to the lack of affordable, stable housing. The change in law not only forces survivors out of a protective shelter, it also reduces the amount of funding Stone House receives to help survivors navigate the process to secure housing while they recover from the trauma of domestic violence.

Your contributions this year help survivors who bravely left a violent relationship and sought safety and peace.

Survivors oftentimes flee dangerous situations leaving everything behind in the pursuit of peace, safety and stability in their life.

The clientele of Stone House complete programs (financial planning, parenting classes, support groups for trauma) as they simultaneously work to secure an affordable home for their family.

Contributions in any amount $5, $10, $15, $20, $25 (and up!) are greatly appreciated and truly make a difference!

If you are not in a position to contribute financially then please send good wishes, high fives, hugs and support! All are gratefully accepted and appreciated :)

As someone who has a personal history with domestic violence, this cause is close to my heart. Whether you are a returning donor or a new donor, your generosity means a lot to me personally and to the clientele of the Stone House. THANK YOU!

Peace, Love and Wildflowers!

Heather

Stone House is a 501(c)3 charitable organization and the tax ID is 51-0192418. If you are fortunate enough to work for a company with a corporate match program, we would SO appreciate your corporate match!

FY23 Stone House Stats:

814 adult and child domestic violence survivors were directly supported

115 individuals found respite and safety through emergency shelter or hotel-based stays

313 months of rental assistance were provided to clients to support safe, stable housing

126 adults received financial coaching services to improve financial stability

42 Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers received trauma-informed care at our Early Learning Center

135 adults received crisis intervention support, i.e. safety planning and taxi vouchers to escape violence