COTS’ Beginnings

Founded in early 1988, COTS was an expression of Mary Isaak’s and Laure Reichek’s concern for children and adults who were sleeping outdoors in culverts, dumpsters or in other unsafe and unsuitable conditions. Raising money from private donors, enlisting the support of the faith community and fraternal organizations, educating the community and monitoring sleepovers at temporary shelters throughout the city, Reichek and Isaak spearheaded the drive for homeless services in Petaluma.

Copperfield’s Bookstore’s basement, the United Methodist Church, Elim Lutheran Church and a house on Howard Street provided by the City of Petaluma were all early sites for COTS’ homeless shelter.

 

Municipal Support

No discussion of COTS' history would be complete without acknowledging the essential role of the City of Petaluma. For more than 20 years, the City Council has steadfastly supported COTS. City staff from all departments, perhaps most notably Bonne Gaebler, the City's Housing Administrator, have provided invaluable help and guidance.

The City of Rohnert Park and County of Sonoma have also offered strong funding and support for COTS' programs.