How This Project Started

Our Story

"I used to be homeless. Now I am not. For a handful of Winters, I used a trick involving a well-sealed reusable water bottle filled with hot water to provide warmth and hope. Now I am turning that into a cooperative and open-source movement to help members of the at-risk public, where policy fails."

— April, Founder of Heartwarmers

The Heartwarmers Project was born from personal experience. Our founder, April, lived out of a vehicle for several years and survived winters by using hot water bottles as a source of warmth. This simple yet effective method became a lifeline during cold nights.

After finding stable housing and returning to school to learn coding and development, April was determined to share this knowledge with others facing similar challenges. What began as a personal survival technique has evolved into a movement to help vulnerable populations stay warm and connected to essential resources.

The Heartwarmers Project is a movement of individuals, businesses, and nonprofits working together to provide warmth, support, and resources to those who need it most.

Our Journey

Winter 2018

The Idea is Born

April discovers the effectiveness of hot water bottles while experiencing homelessness.

Spring 2022

Back to School

After finding stable housing, April begins studying web development with the goal of creating tools for vulnerable populations.

Fall 2023

Project Launch

The Heartwarmers Project officially launches with a website and initial resource map.

Winter 2023

First Distribution

First batch of Heartwarmer bottles distributed to homeless communities in partnership with local organizations.

Spring 2024

App Development

Development begins on the Heartwarmers mobile app to connect users with resources.

Future

Nationwide Expansion

Plans to expand the Heartwarmers network to cities across the country.

The Vision

Our long-term goal is to develop a mobile app that connects people experiencing homelessness or poverty with essential resources, such as shelters, food pantries, and healthcare services. This app will empower individuals to find the help they need and reduce the barriers to accessing vital services.

We envision a future where:

No one freezes to death due to lack of access to warmth
Community resources are easily discoverable by those who need them most
Businesses and organizations actively participate in supporting vulnerable populations
Technology bridges gaps in service delivery and resource allocation
Individuals experiencing homelessness have greater agency and dignity