When you purchase a candle, bar of soap, or any handcrafted item from the Homeless Garden Project Store, you’re not just buying a product—you’re supporting a story of resilience, transformation, and hope. Behind each handmade gift is a person who has poured their time, effort, and heart into its creation. One of those individuals is Carrie Young.
A Fresh Start
Carrie first learned about the Homeless Garden Project while attending a community event through Janus, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. A flyer caught her attention, and within two months, she was part of the program.
“This program has helped me stay out of drugs and alcohol. It’s amazing—it’s helped me stay clean,” Carrie shares.
The structured environment at the Homeless Garden Project has provided her with stability, a sense of purpose, and a much-needed routine. “The program keeps me on track and on time. It helps me have a routine in my life, and I definitely see how that’s beneficial,” she says.
Learning, Growing, and Giving Back
Through her time at the Homeless Garden Project, Carrie has gained a variety of skills—from working in the garden to crafting handmade products.
“I’ve learned how to make candles, soap, and even salve. I’ve learned to grow plants, and I can’t wait to see what I planted start to grow,” she says with excitement.
But for Carrie, the most meaningful part of her journey has been the ability to give back. “I get to give back to the community things that were given to me. Whatever I can do to help, I will do it,” she says.
A Passion for Candle-Making
One of Carrie’s proudest accomplishments at the Homeless Garden Project has been her work with candles.
“I’ve really enjoyed watching the wax melt, pouring it, and seeing it mold into something beautiful,” she says. “Actually, my plan after I finish the program is to start my own company making candles and selling them.”
Why Shopping at the Homeless Garden Project Store Matters
For Carrie, the products made through the program aren’t just items on a shelf—they are symbols of hard work and dedication.
“They’re top-of-the-line products, made by hand and by hardworking people,” she says.
She also wants the community to know that the Homeless Garden Project is more than just a place to work—it’s a support system. “If you ever need help, they have resources here. They’ve helped me very much,” she shares.
Every purchase tells a story. By shopping at the Homeless Garden Project Store, you’re not only receiving a high-quality, handmade product—you’re directly supporting individuals like Carrie who are working toward a better future.
So next time you light one of our handmade candles, know that it carries the warmth of a new beginning. Shop with purpose. Support transformation.
