After extensive discussion with other churches and social service agencies, we took the lead in forming a homeless ministry serving the west valley.  We have partnered with Lutheran Social Services, the City of Avondale, CareFirst of Avondale (picture to the left), and nearly a dozen local churches of different denominations to put together a homeless ministry called IHELP (Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program.) 

IHELP uses existing church buildings on a rotating basis. (We shelter on Wednesday nights.) We host people for up to 90 days as they transition out of homelessness. We offer a safe place to sleep, an evening meal, regular meetings with a case manager, some limited transportation, contact with Christian volunteers, and other helps as needed.

Of course, we do have rules and expectations. No sex-offenders are allowed in the program. There will be no use of drugs or alcohol, no weapons, no violence, a respect for the churches and volunteers, no begging or panhandling while in the program, and a physical search of all bags. Though COVID limited us for awhile, we are now back up and running!

We want to be who we say we are. We love God, love people, and follow Jesus. And housing the homeless is one way we do this!