How We Help
Home is more than a roof. It is security, stability, and the foundation on which everything else is built. At Dorothy Day House, we provide that foundation — and the support to make it last.
Families typically reside in one of our three homes for three to six months. During that time, staff and volunteers work alongside each family toward three core goals: sustainable employment, reliable transportation, and stable, independent housing. After a family transitions out, they can stay connected with our staff and, upon request, continue to receive support. The relationship doesn't have to end at move-out, but we understand families who want to distance themselves from this phase of life.
Across our three homes, we serve up to nine families at a time. This small scale is intentional. It allows us to know each family — not as a case number, but as neighbors.
If you are looking for support services, review our shortlist of additional resources below. This list includes organizations that help individuals and/or families at risk of becoming unhoused or currently experiencing homelessness; however, many more organizations provide support services not included here.
What we provide
Every family at Dorothy Day House has access to the following at no cost:
Housing and daily needs- Safe, furnished housing, food, and clothing for the duration of the stay. Furnishings and small household appliances are provided when families move into permanent housing.
Employment and financial support-Employment counseling, resume and cover letter assistance, job contacts, financial and budgeting guidance, and documentation assistance — including help applying for birth certificates, driver's licenses, food stamps, and other benefits.
Family and child support- Educational resources and guidance, parenting skills support, childcare referrals, and access to medical and behavioral health referrals.
Case management and advocacy- Individualized case management, mentoring, advocacy, and connections to sources of permanent housing. Families also gain something harder to quantify — new personal relationships and a system of healthy support and encouragement for the future.
