Warm Hearts Gala Raises Over $7,000 to Support Local Heating Assistance Efforts

Rockport, ME —The Homeworthy and Thomaston Recreation Department partnership proved to be a powerful force for good this winter, as their inaugural Warm Hearts Gala fundraiser raised $7,083 to benefit Homeworthy’s heating assistance program. 
 
The program provides critical support for community members who struggle to access traditional heating assistance, particularly individuals without stable housing who often fall outside federal aid guidelines. With winter temperatures arriving early and lingering longer than usual, the need for flexible, community-driven heating support was especially urgent this year. Funds raised from the gala will help Homeworthy continue delivering fuel, heating resources, and other essential support to neighbors facing the coldest months without reliable warmth. 
 
The event was the result of months of planning and collaboration between Abby Borron, Ryan Moody, and Chrys deLorimier of Homeworthy, and Justice Barrows of the Thomaston Recreation Department. Meeting weekly, the team set out to create something different from a traditional fundraiser, giving supporters a chance to dress up, connect, and celebrate while contributing to a meaningful cause. 
 
Originally scheduled for the busy holiday season, the organizers made the thoughtful decision to postpone to give the event the attention it deserved. When the new date was announced, the response from the community was overwhelming, with strong attendance and enthusiastic support. 
 
Pascal Hall generously donated the venue, providing a welcoming and elegant space for the evening. Taco Joe Food Truck catered a crowd-pleasing meal that kept spirits high. Musical entertainment was provided by Dos Bolos, featuring Ryan Moody and Collin Wolfe, who shared an acoustic set highlighted by a tribute to Bob Weir of The Grateful Dead. 
 
The success of the evening was made possible by the many volunteers who gave their time and energy. Homeworthy volunteers assisted with decorating, ticket sales, silent auction coordination, and food and beverage service. Additional gratitude goes to the local businesses and individuals who donated items and experiences for the silent auction, including Hot Hill Tavern, Salon Chrysalis, CMCA, PHOG, Thomaston Prison Showroom, Seaside Creations, Betty Kijewski, A Little Moore, Lynn Wildnauer, Kelly Blanchard Massage Therapy, and 250 Main Hotel. 
 
Together, these contributions created an evening filled with generosity, connection, and purpose, all in support of keeping local residents warm through the winter. 
 
After such a successful first year, the organizers are already looking ahead. Plans are underway for the second annual Warm Hearts Gala in 2027, with hopes of building on this year’s momentum and continuing to strengthen community support for those most in need. 
 
For more information about Homeworthy’s heating assistance program or ways to get involved, community members are encouraged to visit https://homeworthy.org/.