Finding Shelter in Churches: Pheonix Housing Network

by Joy McDonnel

In March of 1996, Catholic Community Services assumed responsibility of the Intercommunity Family Shelter Network, a fledgling program in Tacoma which sheltered five homeless families with children in a small network of host churches and faith-based schools.  In 1998, this program changed its name to The Phoenix Housing Network to reflect the expansion of services beyond the shelter.  Despite its growth in a broad continuum of services (80 units of transitional/permanent housing and a complete array of tailored services) the Phoenix Housing Shelter remains the primary way in which families continue to enter this program.
Over more than 15 years, the faith communities in Tacoma, Lakewood, University Place and Puyallup have opened their doors, welcoming homeless families as part of their participation in the Network of churches and faith-based schools that provide evening shelter through The Phoenix Housing Network.

Getting a Fresh Start: Shiloh’s New Life transitional Housing and Services Ministry

by Rev. Gregory Christopher, Senior Pastor

Shiloh’s New Life Transitional Housing and Services Ministry is designed to empower the lives of those who need a hand up and not a hand out. This ministry is designed to meet the needs of the homeless by providing transitional housing, technical assistance for employment and help in furthering their education. Every home provided is equipped with a computer and training is offered using the church’s computer lab. Persons entering these homes must be ready to be empowered for greater living.

Emergency Shelter & Transitional Housing: The Rescue Mission

by Lynette Grubbs

The Rescue Mission reaches out to churches  to educate people on issues of homelessness and to encourage them to help in whatever way they can.  Mission staff members speak to church groups and invite them to sponsor meals, sponsor families in our transitional housing, or volunteer.