What was it like your first time at the House? (nickname for House of Friendship's Charles Street Men's Hostel for men who are homeless). "It wasn't bad at first, then it got hectic. I was there for two months, the first night I didn't want to come in so I slept under the picnic table until a staff member came out. I was treated with so much respect by the workers. You don't get a community like this (anywhere else)"
Founded in 1939, House of Friendship serves low-income adults, youth and children in need of support, and promotes opportunities for personal growth, wholesome relationships and community development through the application of holistic Christian principles. This is a mission that we share with many local member churches, faith groups, partner agencies, businesses, groups, and individuals. The Annual Report, 2010-2011 is an opportunity to report to you on the work of the past year, and to acknowledge the impact of community contributions. In addition, click here for personal stories of impact in HOF's 2010-2011 Stewardship Report.
Each year, we serve over 42,000 people, living on low income in Waterloo Region, through four program areas that focus on:
- Supporting Healthy Lives (Addiction Services)
- Assisting and Feeding Those In Need (Community Services)
- Building Strong Families and Strong Communities (Family Services)
- Providing Shelter and Supportive Housing (Residential services)
With your support, people are able to survive and get back on their feet by receiving emergency food and shelter. And, they are able to benefit from opportunities to lead healthier lives and to grow, connect and develop in their communities. Together, we offer help and hope.
You can securely donate to House of Friendship electronically through Canada Helps (click on "donate now" above) or send your donation to us at the address below. House of Friendship is a registered charity (#10749-3892-RR0001) and will gladly issue a charitable income tax receipt for your donation along with our appreciation. Click on the You Can Help tab or contact us at 519-742-8327 to find out more ways you can get involved and extend the hand of friendship to our neighbours in need.
Looking for a particular staff or program? For a listing of Leadership Team staff contact information click on the Contact Us tab above, and use the Programs tab for specific program information. Download our agency brochure and full listing of programs. Thank you for taking the time to visit. We look forward to hearing from you!
John Neufeld, Executive Director
Tommy speaks quickly and with tears about his childhood. It's difficult to understand the timeline of foster care and other events as he rapidly speaks, but he tries desperately to make some sense of it all. The flashes of pain or anger show that after all of these years the wounds have not yet fully healed.