Visiting a Safe Place for Mothers and Babies
Last week, GFoundation visited Siena House, a Department of Homeless Services (DHS)-registered shelter in the Bronx, to deliver in-kind donations and learn more about the needs of the families it serves.
Siena House provides temporary housing for pregnant women and mothers with children under the age of two, offering a safe and supportive environment as families work toward stable housing, employment, and long-term independence.
Our visit was an opportunity to better understand how GFoundation can continue supporting mothers during an important stage of their lives.
Learning About the Families We Serve
During our visit, Ed Beglane, Director of Siena House, guided us through the shelter and shared how the program supports residents.
Each family has a private room furnished with a bed and crib, creating a safe and welcoming space for mothers and their young children. At the time of our visit, approximately 20 families were living at the shelter, with new residents continuing to arrive.
Families typically remain at Siena House for six to seven months while working closely with case managers and housing specialists to prepare for permanent housing and greater self-sufficiency.
Beyond housing, Siena House also offers programs that help mothers build confidence and practical skills, including:
- Overdose prevention and Naloxone training
- Breast cancer awareness and screening workshops
- Access to birthing doula services for first-time and teenage mothers
- Workforce development opportunities, including New York State childcare certification and free online college courses
Throughout the shelter, thoughtfully designed nursery areas, shared kitchens, and community spaces help create an environment where families can feel safe and supported.
Expanding Our Partnership
As we learned more about the day-to-day needs of residents, we identified an opportunity to provide ongoing support.
Many mothers continue to need basic hygiene and household supplies—items that are essential but can place additional financial strain on families already facing difficult circumstances.
To help meet these needs, GFoundation plans to assemble and deliver care kits on a regular basis.
The kits will include items such as:
- Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and toothbrushes
- Diapers and baby wipes
- Menstrual hygiene products
- Household cleaning supplies
These everyday essentials can help ease financial pressure while supporting mothers as they care for their young children.
Looking Ahead
For more than 30 years, Siena House has provided housing and supportive services for mothers experiencing homelessness.
GFoundation is grateful for the opportunity to partner with Siena House and support its mission of helping families build stable, independent futures.
We look forward to continuing this partnership and helping ensure that mothers and young children have access to the essential items they need as they move toward permanent housing.
Your gift helps women and children in shelters find safety, dignity, and hope.
Together, we can make every shelter a place to begin again.
| Donate to support women’s shelter
- Become a Monthly Donor – Help women and children in shelters rebuild their lives with safety and stability.
- Make a One-Time Gift – Provide essentials and comfort for families seeking refuge today.
- Give In-Kind Donation – Send hygiene kits, baby items, or other daily necessities to shelters in need. [link]
