Make a difference: New London Homeless Hospitality Center

WHO: Howard, 52

AGENCY: New London Homeless Hospitality Center, 19 Jay St., New London

SITUATION: After months on the waiting list, Howard finally worked his way up to get an affordable New London Housing Authority apartment. He is thrilled to escape homelessness but doesn't have the money to get even a bed for his new apartment. Like many others, he will face the first few weeks or even months in a new apartment without furniture, kitchen utensils, a radio and the other things that make a home.

WHAT TO GIVE: A donation of $400 will allow the New London Homeless Hospitality Center to provide the basics for an apartment - a new bed, a selection of gently used furniture chosen from the Homeward Bound Treasures Thrift Store and a $50 gift card to use with staff help to fill in basics that are missing.

TO DONATE: Donations can be dropped off at the Hospitality Center at 19 Jay St. or mailed to P.O. Box 1651, New London, CT 06320. You also may call (860) 439-1573.