A Night for Others Dinner Raises Over $57,000 for The Campaign for Marshall House

Wednesday, June 18th marked the official kickoff of The Campaign for Marshall House. It was a night dedicated to something greater than all of us, a celebration of hope, dignity, and renewed stability for families experiencing homelessness in the Greater Hartford area. The second annual A Night for Others dinner raised more than $57,000 in support of The Campaign for Marshall House, helping advance a critical renovation project for one of the most vital shelter programs in Hartford.

Homelessness is not a choice, but often the result of circumstances that can affect anyone at any time. Guests at Marshall House have come from a wide range of situations. Some are escaping abuse, others facing sudden job loss, as well as young adults who have been asked to leave their homes. No matter the path that led them there, The Salvation Army remains committed to offering help, safety, and a fresh start.

Founded in 1974, the Marshall House Family Shelter has long served as a place of refuge and renewal. Its mission is to provide a safe, supportive environment where individuals and families can stabilize their lives and move from homelessness to independence. For more than five decades, Marshall House has helped neighbors rebuild. In recent years alone, 95% of individuals and families entering the program have successfully transitioned into stable housing and have not returned to shelter services.

Despite the fact that the Marshall House on South Marshall Street remains closed due to environmental concerns and subsequent damage, the Marshall House program has never stopped operating. Staff continue to provide case management and support, ensuring the mission remains active in the community even without a fully operational facility.

The evening was hosted by Brian Shactman of WTIC’s Brian & Company, who welcomed guests with reflections on his journey learning about The Salvation Army’s mission and the impact of Marshall House. He shared, “Marshall House is more than a shelter, it’s hope packaged into four walls.” Shactman added that the support of the room represented more than generosity, it was an investment in dignity, safety, and long-term stability for families in Greater Hartford.

Throughout the evening, guests recognized Majors Donald and Paula Spencer, the Greater Hartford Salvation Army Area Services Coordinators, the Greater Hartford Advisory Board, and members of the A Night for Others planning committee, including Paige Thompson, Eric Person, and Erin Siezkowski, for their dedication and leadership in bringing the evening together. Special acknowledgment was also given to the staff at Avon Old Farms Hotel and David Allen Hospitality Group for their support of the event.

A meaningful moment of the evening honored Sandy Midura, whose 42 years of service with The Salvation Army included decades of leadership at Marshall House. Her career spanned direct service, shelter leadership, and housing stabilization work, impacting thousands of individuals and families over more than four decades of ministry and care.

The evening also highlighted the urgent need to restore the Marshall House facility. After years of environmental issues, relocation of residents, and building damage, plans are now underway to bring the shelter back to full operation. The proposed $11.5 million renovation includes full roof and window replacement, electrical and plumbing system upgrades, enhanced safety and security systems, renovated kitchen and laundry facilities, updated furnishings for 23 guest rooms and shared spaces, and a long-term endowment to sustain future operations.

During the evening, organizers shared that nearly $8.3 million has already been secured through commitments and prior investments, bringing the project significantly closer to construction readiness. In a formal announcement, the Advisory Board introduced The Campaign for Marshall House, marking the next phase in restoring the shelter for future generations.

Guests also participated in a paddle raise, contributing at various giving levels in support of both immediate needs and the long-term renovation effort. The response pushed the evening’s fundraising total to more than $57,000, underscoring strong community commitment to the mission.

As the evening concluded, speakers expressed gratitude to all who made the event possible and to those who continue to stand alongside The Salvation Army in Greater Hartford. The evening closed with a benediction from Major Madelaine Dwier, Divisional Commander for the Southern New England Division, leaving guests with a renewed sense of purpose and momentum for the work ahead.