In August 2024, Amanda Woodruff launched Rachel’s Hope with a clear purpose: to help Watertown families struggling to afford basic hygiene and cleaning supplies. While working as a caseworker for the Department of Labor’s Temporary Assistance for Families in Need (TAFN) program, Amanda saw firsthand how families in crisis were forced to water down soap, skip deodorant, or go without cleaning products just to make it to the end of the month.

“I decided I could be the person to help fill that gap,” Amanda said. And in just one year, Rachel’s Hope has done just that—serving over 1,000 Watertown households with dignity and compassion.

Rachel’s Hope was launched with generous community donations and support from a Watertown Area Community Foundation Women & Giving grant. The organization also won the Foundation’s 2024 Christmas Tree Fundraiser, further helping stock its shelves with essential items.

The nonprofit is named in honor of Amanda’s sister, Rachel—someone Amanda considers a friend, role model, and inspiration. Rachel was born with FSH Muscular Dystrophy and has faced challenges in her life that have caused her to see the world through a different lens.

“She just really taught me the importance of giving to other people—spreading kindness and love, and extending that helping hand without judgment,” Amanda shared.

Families in need can fill out a short form online or in person at the Department of Labor. Volunteers assist with packing and delivering items, especially for clients without reliable transportation.