Give love to Primavera on February 14 (and always)! Ways to show your love:

Questions? To volunteer or donate items, reach out to Sophia at ssmith.gatto@primavera.org. To make a monetary donation, reach out to Pete at pcorrigan@primavera.org.

Thank you for the love!

Jonathan Walker never saw himself as a writer. Born and raised in Auburn Hills, Mich., he says writing was something he had to “grow into.” After serving five years in the U.S. Air Force, Walker faced significant mental health challenges that eventually led to homelessness.

“I didn’t have the push or drive to use my gifts,” he shared. “I was busy trying to understand myself—and I’m still healing.”

Although he had carried the idea for a book for nearly six years, it wasn’t until he found stability at The Primavera Foundation’s men’s shelter that he was able to fully focus on writing. In just two and a half months, Walker completed his first book, The Ascension of Bloodlines.

The science fiction novel draws from Walker’s military background, his mental health journey, and his interest in metaphysics and spirituality. With encouragement from volunteer Ted McLoof, a University of Arizona professor, Walker stayed motivated and finished the manuscript.

For Walker, writing became a powerful tool for healing. “It gives me peace,” he said.

His book is expected to be available on Amazon in the coming weeks—a meaningful milestone that reflects what’s possible when creativity, support, and stability come together.

The Primavera Works program continues to create meaningful connections through hands-on projects that benefit both our community and the individuals gaining valuable job experience. Recently, a Primavera Works crew completed a wall project for a local resident, leaving a lasting impression through their craftsmanship, professionalism, and teamwork.

In a message shared after the project, customer Hyatt Simpson praised the crew’s work and experience, noting how respectful and engaging the team was throughout the process. Hyatt also highlighted the leadership of supervisor Mike Ivan, Primavera Works Job Coach, describing him as patient, clear, and supportive. 

“I don’t use social media, but I will definitely be showing and telling our friends about Primavera Works,” Hyatt shared.

Moments like these reflect the heart of the Primavera Works program: building skills, strengthening community trust, and creating work that people are proud to stand behind.

Primavera staff participated in this year’s Point-in-Time Count by leading and supporting survey efforts across multiple sectors. At the Resource Center, a team led by Danell Jessup worked alongside Primavera staff members Ayesha Swannigan (RRH) and Cindy Carrillo (Outreach) to survey participants from 8-10:50 a.m. The team engaged with individuals on site, listening to their stories and lived experiences, and successfully completed and submitted 39 surveys.

Additional Primavera-led teams were stationed in nearby sectors, including one led by Jeanette Quijada (HIP) and another co-led by Madi Herrera (RRH). These teams were joined by Primavera staff members Viviana Orozco and Corina Sanchez. Together, their efforts helped ensure community members were counted and represented, reflecting Primavera’s continued commitment to outreach, collaboration, and community-centered care.

We’re sharing a new survey to gather input on potential Primavera merchandise to make available for purchase, including apparel and branded items. Take a moment to share what you’d like to see as we explore the idea of a Primavera Shop.

Interested in making a difference in your community?

Buy your Primavera Foundation T-shirt today and support our mission to co-create pathways out of poverty through outreach, housing, workforce development, homeownership, financial education, and comprehensive community development!

LIMITED STOCK: T-shirts are $20 plus $8 shipping. T-shirts are soft and comfortable and available in sizes S-2XL.

Click on the button below to order yours today!

You can still make a Qualifying Charitable Organization (QCO) donation and claim it on your 2025 Arizona tax return. Donations made in 2025, or between January 1 and April 15, 2026 are eligible. 

For the 2025 tax season, you can receive up to $495 for those filing as single or $987 for those filing as married/jointly. Make your impact today and take advantage of the tax credit!

Recently, federal food assistance programs have been challenged, food prices are rising, and the need for food assistance across the community is growing.

Join us in our efforts to provide essential meals to those we serve.

Your food donations will support participants staying in our shelters and taking part in Primavera programs, including individuals, families, veterans, and seniors.

How can you help? 

Most needed non-perishable items include: Canned protein, rice, pasta, cereal, peanut butter, canned fruits & vegetables, and snacks.

To donate food or learn more, contact Sophia at 520-882-3707 x1509 or ssmith.gatto@primavera.org.

Last call for our winter season, many in our community need extra warmth and care. The Primavera Foundation is seeking donations of blankets, jackets, pants, boots,  water bottles/Gatorade, beanies, reusable bottles, non-perishable snacks, and more for our friends at the Homelessness Intervention & Prevention Drop-In Center, Shelters, and STAR Village! 

For information on how to donate in-kind items, contact Sophia Smith-Gatto at ssmith.gatto@primavera.org. 

The lists below have the latest items Primavera programs need. The lists are updated frequently to adapt to the ever-changing needs of each location: Mobile Outreach, Homelessness, Intervention & Prevention (HIP), Men's Shelter, Casa Paloma Women's Shelter and Hospitality Center, Project Action for Veterans (PAV), Rapid Rehousing, Family Pathways, Primavera Works, and now STAR Village. Purchasing items from an Amazon list is one way to support our programs. We appreciate everyone's generosity and support!

If you have any questions, contact Sophia Smith-Gatto at ssmith.gatto@primavera.org.