More upgrades for Care & Share of Crookston: Improving energy efficiency for Hope Center Family Shelter

Describe the number of building upgrades made and share any energy saving estimates.

This project included the replacement of aging, inefficient windows throughout the Family Hope Center with new energy-efficient windows. While exact energy savings are not yet known, as the shelter has not completed a full heating and cooling season with the new windows installed, immediate improvements have already been observed.

Drafts that were previously felt around older windows have been eliminated, and issues with rain and moisture intrusion around window areas have been resolved.

These upgrades have improved the building envelope, helping to maintain more consistent indoor temperatures and reducing the loss of conditioned air. As a result, the heating and cooling systems are expected to operate more efficiently, which should lead to lower energy consumption and utility costs over time.

The new windows have also enhanced comfort for residents by creating a warmer environment during cold weather and reducing heat gain during warmer months. Energy usage and cost savings will continue to be monitored as the shelter moves through future heating and cooling seasons.

The next plan for Care and Share is to to upgrade their lighting.

How did the upgrades make a difference for the Care and Share community?

This project served families residing at the Family Hope Center, including parents and children experiencing housing instability or homelessness. By installing energy-efficient windows, the project improved indoor comfort, reduced drafts, maintained more consistent temperatures throughout the year, and created a healthier living environment. The improvements also lowered energy costs, thus allowing the shelter to direct more resources toward supportive services such as housing assistance and family programs.

The project was shared with the larger community through the Family Hope Center's ongoing outreach efforts, donor communications, and community partnerships. Information about the window replacement project was communicated to supporters, volunteers, and stakeholders to highlight the impact of energy-efficiency improvements on shelter operations and resident well-being. Lastly, this project increased community awareness by demonstrating how facility upgrades can reduce energy costs and improve living conditions.

If you were helping someone else replicate your project, what advice would you give them?

Through this project, we learned that investing in energy-efficient building improvements can have both immediate and long-term benefits for organizations serving vulnerable populations. Replacing outdated windows improved comfort for residents, reduced drafts, increased energy efficiency, and is expected to lower heating and cooling costs over time.

We also learned the importance of planning ahead, working closely with qualified contractors, and scheduling installation activities to minimize disruption to shelter operations. For organizations looking to replicate this project, we recommend conducting an assessment of existing building conditions, obtaining multiple contractor estimates, and selecting high-quality, energy-efficient products that provide long-term value. It is also important to communicate with staff, residents, and stakeholders throughout the process to track energy savings plus operational benefits after completion.