Volunteers contribute time on United Way Day of Caring.
Introduction
The history of The Dwelling Place traces back to the spring of 1979 when a group of clergy and lay people, united by a common concern for the homeless, began exploring ways to assist families in need of temporary shelter. Incorporated in February 1985, The Dwelling Place is governed by a Board of Directors with representatives from area congregations and other organizations, as well as individual members-at-large.
King House was leased for one dollar per year from the Catholic Diocese in Richmond for many years. Recently, at their request The Dwelling Place purchased the shelter home from the Catholic Diocese. These two homes provide shelter for 14 families.
The Dwelling Place offers a supportive, structured environment to help homeless families achieve stability and become more self-sufficient. Programs and services for parents include:
- Case Management
- Counseling
- Assistance in Finding Housing and Employment
- Employment Readiness Training
- Educational Workshops
- Parenting Workshops
- Family Literacy Activities
- Art Therapy
For most children, homelessness is not a brief experience, but a time in their lives filled with educational and emotional setbacks that can last for years. Homeless children are typically isolated and at risk for abuse and neglect. The Dwelling Place programs and services for children include:
- Computer Skills Development
- Tutoring
- Community Field Trips
- Art Therapy
- Children's Case Management
The Dwelling Place is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization with 501(c) (3) tax status. The Executive Director, Patricia K. Manthey, is in charge of all agency operations and emergency shelter programming and is responsible for overall fiscal management.
For more information call The Dwelling Place at 757-624-9879