Our Story

Linens of Love, Inc. was founded by Mary B. Pursell in 2015. Mary and her daughter had been providing dinners once a week to homeless men at shelters in New Haven through her daughter’s high school outreach program. While there, they noticed that many of the beds did not have sheets, blankets, or even pillows. In addition, they received many requests for toothbrushes, deodorant, and soap from the residents and could not always provide for them. This experience had a profound impact on them, so Mary explored if there was truly a need for these items at surrounding community shelters. Mary enlisted the help of her childhood friend, Kathleen F. Marinaccio, and soon after, Linens of Love, Inc. was born.

Since becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2015, the list of organizations we help has grown. Some of the organizations we now provide for are local shelters, DCF, and religious groups who serve those experiencing housing insecurity and homelessness. We also provide for those in need who contacts us directly looking for bedding and toiletries.

Linens of Love’s story is far from over. As we continue to grow, the demand for different kinds of items has increased. Families who are moving out of shelters into homes of their own are in need of bigger items, such as beds, couches, and other furniture! With the help of our community and very generous donors, we hope to purchase a vehicle that can transport these kinds of items. With a vehicle, we would also be able to service homeless shelters in areas outside of Greater New Haven.