Carolyn didn’t need to say much for me to feel the weight of her story. She sat at a table near the front of the breakfast room, her purple-framed glasses slipping gently down her nose as she poured milk over a bowl of Cocoa Puffs. A few pieces spilled onto the tray, but not one was wasted. She caught my eye and smiled — a little crooked, a little knowing — and said softly, “I haven’t had anything to eat since yesterday.” No bitterness, just truth.

Meet one of our dedicated volunteers, Adrienne Gillespie who has been part of the Anchor Lancaster family for over two years. She first discovered Anchor through a local newspaper listing organizations in need of volunteers. At the time, she was gradually stepping back from her career and looking for meaningful ways to stay active and engaged in her community. That search led her to us—and we’re so grateful it did!

Twice a week, Adrienne can be found serving breakfast every other Wednesday and Friday, in addition to spending 1–2 additional days in our Day Center. While she enjoys all aspects of volunteering, it’s the Day Center that holds a special place in her heart.

“I love the Day Center because it has a slower pace, and I get to know our guests by name,” Adrienne shares. “Learning their stories helps build deeper connections. It gives me a chance to let them know how much we care.”

Her experience at Anchor has been both humbling and eye-opening. “I think people should know how fulfilling this work is. It’s a chance to step out of your comfort zone and really make a difference,” she says. “We’re all human. I’ve had times in my life where I was one paycheck away from being in a bad spot. Volunteering here keeps me grounded and reminds me to stay humble.”

She also wants potential volunteers to know that support is always available. “You’re never alone. There’s always someone here to help handle any situation. I’ve never felt unsafe and actually, I enjoy the quiet moments and conversations with guests.”

One of her most memorable moments includes a seemingly small interaction that carried deep meaning. “There was a guest who was very guarded. One day, they let me get them a cup of coffee. It might sound simple, but it was a breakthrough—because it meant I had earned their trust, and trust is everything”

At Anchor Lancaster, volunteers like Adrienne are the heartbeat of what we do as they show up with compassion, listening ears, and open hearts. We’re honored to spotlight her story and the quiet impact she makes every single week.

Thank you, Adrienne, for your love and commitment—you make a real difference!

For the past few years, Geoff has started most of his mornings at Anchor Lancaster—with a bowl of Honey Bunches of Oats, a hot cup of coffee, and a table full of his friends. “Sometimes I grab a muffin or a bagel,” he says. “But really, I come for the coffee and the cereal and to see my friends.”

For the past 7–8 years, Dawn has been a steady, compassionate presence at Anchor Lancaster. Her journey with us began when she read about Anchor in the newspaper during a time when her church was doing a series on The Purpose Driven Life. Feeling inspired to find a meaningful way to serve, she followed that calling—and we’ve been grateful ever since.

At nearly 72 years old, Gary never expected to find himself homeless. But when his brother passed away, the life he had known unraveled quickly. His nieces let him continue to stay in the house for as long as they could, but eventually, they had to sell it. Then, on the very same day he became homeless, his car broke down—leaving him without shelter or transportation.

That was just 30 days ago.

Cheryl’s time at Anchor Lancaster has been defined by genuine connections and a deep sense of purpose. This month, she is celebrating seven years of making a difference as a volunteer with us!

At Anchor Lancaster, we are privileged to witness the stories of transformation, resilience, and hope that many of our guests experience. One guest's journey stands out as an inspiring example of strength and faith.

Anchor Lancaster is pleased to announce that, thanks to the remarkable generosity of our community during our Spread the Love campaign, we have received enough ketchup to meet our needs for an entire year. This outpouring of support is a testament to the kindness and commitment of those who continue to stand with us in serving our guests.

What does it mean for Anchor Lancaster to be a low-barrier community program?

 “If I didn’t have the overnight shelter or Anchor, I don’t know where I’d be,” she says as her voice shakes. “I’m just glad I have somewhere to go.”