Ruth’s Place 18th Annual Walk for Hope

In honor of this 130-year legacy of service, we invite you to support the 18th Annual Walk for Hope, our largest fundraiser for Ruth’s Place, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 PM on Public Square in Wilkes-Barre. During the Walk for Hope, each person “walks in the shoes” of people who are experiencing homelessness in our community and empathizes with the challenges they face when seeking help and regaining housing, independence, and hope! As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we are proud to continue that legacy through programs like Ruth’s Place, the only 24/7 emergency shelter for women in Luzerne County, offering not just safe housing, but the support and pathways needed to rebuild lives.

In 2025, Ruth’s Place provided over 8,500 nights of shelter to 225 women. 89% of women moved on to permanent housing or transitional programs. Ruth’s Place has developed a supportive community where women find a loving culture, resources, guidance, and a path toward a new and better reality. Your contributions directly feed, clothe, keep safe, and uplift those we serve during their greatest time of need.

This September, help VOAPA address the growing need for emergency housing in Luzerne County by supporting Walk for Hope.

Here are a few ways to get involved this year:

               1. Donate to Walk for Hope 2026:

              Contribute to our 2026 fundraising goal.

           2. Create a Fundraising Team:

Set a fundraising goal and fundraise with your colleagues, family, and friends.

    3. Purchase a Sponsorship:

Learn more about each level of sponsorship.