For more than 40 years, Wellspring House has been a trusted presence in Gloucester and across the North Shore, working with community members to secure stable housing and make strides in education, job training, and career readiness. 

“Wellspring is laser-focused on helping young adults and families manage, and ultimately comfortably handle what are steep costs of living,” said Melissa Dimond, President and Executive Director of Wellspring House. “It’s not enough to simply create an opportunity; we must also remove the barriers that keep families and young adults stuck in financial stress.” 

That work is strengthened through local partnerships. 

In 2024, Peabody-based nonprofit Ladybug Love approached Wellspring with a shared commitment to comfort and care. Founded by twin sisters Lisa and Tina in honor of their late mother, Ladybug Love donates specially designed blankets to community members.  

Ladybug Love blankets provide warmth and cost savings for families staying in Wellspring’s shelter and for clients working with Wellspring’s Homelessness Prevention team. With the help of these donations, families can use their limited funds for other basic needs rather than purchasing blankets, making a meaningful difference throughout the year. 

Since the partnership’s inception, over 200 blankets have been distributed to numerous families working with Wellspring. 

Each Ladybug Love blanket delivery includes hand-painted ladybug rocks, inspired by the sisters’ belief that ladybugs are a sign their mother is watching over them. The rocks, small but symbolic, soon carried meaning of their own. 

“In this case, a simple rock helped a child in ways we had never imagined,” said Katie O’Leary, Wellspring’s Director of Homelessness Prevention.  

One of those rocks found its way into the hands of David, a young boy staying in shelter with his mother, Caroline. Even after transitioning into stable housing, David struggled to feel fully integrated at school, navigating high levels of anxiety connected in part to an autism diagnosis. 

When a member of the Wellspring team handed him a ladybug rock, something shifted. David began using it as a worry stone, holding it during stressful moments. Over time, he rubbed it so often that its painted surface faded completely. 

Gradually, things began to change. 

Today, David is fully integrated into public school with a one-to-one aid supporting his learning. He joined a sports team and is building rapport with his peers. What began as a small painted rock became a steadying presence during a vulnerable chapter.  

There is so much possibility in partnership.  

“Our partners are a lifeline, providing basic needs and assisting us in fostering trusting relationships with our families,” emphasized O’Leary. 

“We are honored to partner with Wellspring,” said the Ladybug Love team. “We are impressed by their passion and commitment to Gloucester and the surrounding communities.” 

Families experiencing housing instability continue to need everyday essentials, including toiletries, cleaning supplies, and socks. Those interested in supporting Wellspring’s work can contact Mary Hardwick at mhardwick@wellspringhouse.org for more information